The practice of modifying trucks by significantly raising the front suspension while lowering the rear, often referred to colloquially as the “Carolina Squat,” has faced increasing scrutiny and legislative action. This alteration creates a vehicle with a severely raked posture, where the front end points skyward and the rear sits much lower. This extreme modification deviates substantially from manufacturer specifications and intended vehicle geometry.
Concerns over safety and visibility are central to the debate surrounding the legality of these vehicle modifications. The altered headlight angle can blind oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the drastically changed center of gravity and suspension geometry can negatively impact braking performance and handling, potentially leading to diminished control and increased risk of rollovers. Historically, while some perceived the modification as an aesthetic choice, growing safety concerns prompted calls for regulation, leading to legislative action in several states.
