Why is the vehicle center of gravity crucial for safe handling?

The vehicle's center of gravity is crucial for safe handling because it influences the vehicle's stability during movement and turns. When a vehicle has a high center of gravity, its weight is distributed higher above the ground, making it more susceptible to tipping over, especially in sharp turns or during sudden maneuvers. This is particularly important for larger vehicles, such as trucks and buses, which naturally have a higher center of gravity due to their size and load-carrying capabilities.

When the center of gravity is elevated, the forces acting on the vehicle during turns can cause it to roll over more easily, leading to potentially dangerous situations. Drivers must be aware of their vehicle's center of gravity to adjust their driving style accordingly and maintain safety on the road. Understanding how to manage the center of gravity contributes significantly to effective braking, cornering, and overall control.

In the context of the other choices, while speed limits, fuel consumption, and maximum load capacity are important factors in vehicle operation, they do not directly tie into the vehicle's handling and stability in the same way that the center of gravity does. Thus, the focus on rollover risk provides a clear understanding of why the center of gravity is so vital for safe handling.