Maryland Accident Law Blog
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the months of June through August are when the highest number of 15-passenger van injuries and deaths occur. 31% of all deadly 15-passenger van rollovers take place during this season, which is why the NHTSA wants drivers of these large vans to drive carefully and make sure that they follow the proper safety measures.
15 Passenger Vans
These large vans are designed to transport a large number of people and significant cargo. As a result, 15-passenger vans are a popular choice of transportation for large families, school kids, church groups, nursing homes, and others.
Over the last several years, however, there has been a noticeable trend of injuries and deaths occurring to passengers—in particular, students, being transported in these vehicles.
After analyzing 1,957 crashes the NHTSA found that the more passengers riding in these vans—even within the 15-passenger limit, the more likely these vans were to rollover and cause serious injury or death.
One reason for this is that 15-passenger vans are designed with a high center of gravity, which moves higher and towards the rear whenever the weight in the van gets heavier. This increases the chances of rollovers.
Other hazards that can cause injury or harm upon rollover include:
• Lack of laminated side windows to cushion a passenger
• No emergency exits
• Insufficient crash padding
Motor vehicle accidents that occur because of a defect in a vehicle can be grounds for personal injury or wrongful death claims if someone gets hurt or dies.
In Maryland and Washington DC, our auto products liability lawyers can discuss your case with you.
Rollover Crashes for 15-Passenger Vans More Likely during Summer, NHTSA.gov
15-Passenger Vans: High-Riding Death Traps, Safetyforum.com
Related Web Resource:
15-Passenger Van Safety Hazards
Contact Lebowitz & Mzhen today.