The Dangers of 15-Passenger Vans

San Antonio Motor Vehicle Accident Law Firm

Most people are unsuspecting when it comes to the potential dangers of 15-passenger vans. These vans are frequently used by organizations to transport large groups of people and cargo to and from events. 15 Passenger vans are often used on a regular basis by churches, colleges, and businesses. There is a design defect causing them to fishtail and rollover because they are exceptionally top heavy. The 15 passenger vans have a very high center of gravity. When they are overloaded they become very unstable, which can be detrimental to any passenger involved in an accident.

Before driving a 15-Passenger van, take this into consideration:

• There are an estimated 500,000 15-passenger vans on the roads today.
• 15-passenger vans have a rollover ratio of 70 percent during an accident when loaded.
• The federal government has banned the purchase of 15-passenger vans for use by most public schools.
• Since 1990, over 400 people have died as a result of single vehicle rollover accidents in 15-passenger vans.
• In April of 2001, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued a warning concerning the use of 15-passenger vans, stating that the 15-passenger vans had an increased risk of rollover under certain conditions.

Before operating a 15-passenger van, be sure to:

• Check the tires for signs of wear, which could increase the chances of a rollover.
• Load the vehicle’s seats starting in the front.
• Position the luggage in the rear of the vehicle, behind the back seat.
• Remove the roof rack from the vehicle, because it increases the center of gravity, which increases the chance of a rollover.
• Do not talk on cell phones when driving.
• Drivers should ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts appropriately before using the vehicle.

Manufacturers of 15-passenger vans are inundated with lawsuits filed annually concerning massive injuries or death. Ford and General Motors are presently manufacturing new 15-passenger vans. Chrysler stopped producing 15-passenger vans in 2002.

If you or a loved one has been critically injured or wrongfully killed in a 15-passenger van accident, contact us today. We will take your call day or night. If you need an injury lawyer the San Antonio area, call 210-223-9200 or 1-888-501-9299 or fill out the form below. We will give you a free case evaluation and we will not charge you a fee unless we win a positive settlement or verdict in your favor.