What does the neutral start safety system help prevent?

The neutral start safety system is designed primarily to prevent the machine from starting while it is in gear. This feature is crucial for the safety of the operator and those nearby, as it helps eliminate the risk of unexpected movement when the engine is turned on. If the machine were able to start while in gear, it could lurch forward or backward, posing significant danger. By requiring the machine to be in neutral for the engine to start, this system ensures a safer operating environment.

Addressing the other choices, while the neutral start safety system contributes to overall machine safety, it does not directly prevent engine overheating or improper loading of the backhoe. Additionally, while it plays a role in preventing accidental movement during the starting process, its primary function centers around ensuring that the machine can only start when safely positioned in neutral.