"Overloaded" refers to being over your registered weight. My Tundra was registered for 8000 lbs (IIRC) even though the GVWR was only 7200 lbs. I could LEGALLY be 800 lbs "overloaded".
In case of a law suit, the lawyer bring the case would have the burden of proof that my weights made the vehicle unsafe. Being under tire weights, axle weights and GCWR would make it difficult to PROVE negligence, which is the argument in a civil case.
My 3/4 ton truck is "rated" to 10K lbs. My axle weights are around 12K I think. My tire ratings are over 12K. The lawyer would have to PROVE that I was NEGLIGENT in being over my warranty rating of 10K lbs, but under my registration weight, axles weights, tire weights, etc.
