Which condition may make braking more difficult in a combination vehicle?

An empty cargo area without Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) can significantly impact braking performance in a combination vehicle. When a vehicle is empty, it tends to have less weight on the drive axles. This can lead to reduced traction, which makes it more challenging to achieve effective braking. In addition, without ABS, the wheels can lock up during hard braking, which can cause the vehicle to skid. This situation is particularly concerning for combination vehicles, as they require careful handling due to their size and weight distribution.

In contrast, a legally loaded vehicle and one with a properly distributed cargo would provide better stability and braking performance, allowing the driver to maintain control. A well-balanced load similarly allows for safe braking as it optimizes the vehicle’s center of gravity and weight on all axles. Hence, an empty cargo area pairs with the absence of ABS as a condition that can impede braking in a combination vehicle, making it the most relevant choice in this context.