This is true.
If you do a rudimentary calculation of PSI distributed over the size/area of the entire length of track in contact with the street (times two), it’s a fraction of a typical semi truck rolling down the same stretch of road.
Exactly. Hence the Michigan doubles with all the axles under them. Less pounds per Square inch on the surface. Shorter stopping distance also.
A Michigan double with the right configuration can carry up to 50 tons plus. They are allowed 164 thousand pounds gross.