Oklahoma Passenger Van Accident Attorneys
Help If You've Been Hurt in a 15 Passenger Van Collision
15 passenger vans are used by church groups, youth sports teams, and activity organizers for transport to various events and activities. Unfortunately, the injury and fatality risk associated with these vehicles has prompted safety warnings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
A NHTSA publication issued May 28, 2015 reports that 15 passenger vans are significantly longer and taller than most light passenger vehicles. This can increase the chance of rollover crashes, without proper tire maintenance and routine safety checks. NHTSA states that 15 passenger vans are an area of particular concern because of the potential for death or multiple serious injuries in crashes involving these vehicles. If you have been seriously injured in a 15 passenger van accident, it is imperative that you speak with a knowledgeable attorney at Car Accident Help as soon as possible.
Our Oklahoma car accident lawyers serve as advocates for injured people, we know the law and your rights. We can assist you to determine if you have a case, and if filing a lawsuit is the best course of action in your case.
What Are the Risks With 15 Passenger Vans?
Although these vans may be convenient for groups of people traveling together, NHTSA warns that caution is needed to minimize safety risks for 15 passenger van occupants. The rollover risk increases dramatically depending upon the number of passengers in the van. Based on a study conducted by NHTSA of 15 passenger van fatalities over a five-year period, the rollover rate in single-vehicle crashes with 10 or more occupants is almost 3 times the rollover rate when the van carries 5 or less occupants.
IIHS reports that 15 passenger vans are larger and more difficult to handle than most passenger vehicles. Drivers lacking experience may have difficulty negotiating corners, backing up, or performing other driving maneuvers. These vehicles have a higher center of gravity, and a larger capacity for passengers, and with each passenger added, the center of gravity is further raised. The more passengers are added, the more difficult to handle and unstable these vehicles become.
In spite of manufacturing improvements with better technology and safer vehicles in recent years, 15 passenger vans still have serious safety shortcomings, including:
- High center of gravity that is raised with each additional passenger;
- Seating configurations placing excess weight on left rear tires, which can result in blowouts, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle;
- Flat sides contributing to vehicle instability in crosswinds;
- Structural rigidity designed for less demanding cargo transport.
Call an Oklahoma Van Accident Lawyer About Your Injury Claim
Oklahoma is an "at fault" car insurance state. If you or your loved one has been seriously hurt in a van crash, the responsible party may be held accountable for your injuries. Our Oklahoma auto accident injury attorneys can tell you if you have a case and advise you of your options under the law. Contact Car Accident Help for a free case evaluation at (405) 285-4357.
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