Seen on roads everywhere, squatted trucks have become the latest fad among young drivers. Also called the “Carolina squat”, these vehicles sit with a lifted cab and a normal or lowered bed, creating a noticeable forward tilt.

     The trend is especially popular with new drivers eager to stand out, but not everyone is impressed. Many critics find squatted trucks unattractive and even dangerous, sparking debates about visibility and road safety.

     “You still see the road. You’re not looking up [to the sky],” sophomore John Schee said, arguing that the trucks do not pose a hazard.

     Others disagree, insisting that the angle makes it harder for drivers to see.

     “Sitting at an angle, there is no way you can see the road properly,” sophomore Ansley Hurst said.

     Beyond visibility, there are mechanical concerns. The uneven distribution of weight in a squatted truck puts extra stress on its parts. Bearings, in particular, wear out much faster.

     “Squatted trucks get bad mileage, and parts go out very easily on them,” senior Langston Chason said.

     The combination of poor fuel economy, frequent repairs and legal restrictions adds to the controversy. In several states, squatted trucks are illegal, and many drivers report frequent tickets. Between safety concerns, high costs and divided opinions, the future of this trend remains uncertain.