If you are a driver or occupant of a 15 passenger van you are at risk for serious physical injuries. There are steps that you can take to help prevent dangerous rollover accidents, which include staying calm and thinking clearly in the event of an accident or rollover.

HELPFUL TIPS TO AVOID 15 PASSENGER VAN ROLLOVER ACCIDENTS

Read the instruction manual for your 15 passenger van. Become familiar with the safety features of your vehicle, as well as any hazards to be aware of, cargo weight limits and cargo positioning suggestions.

Use common sense while operating your 15 passenger van. Never drive any vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol, sedative medication, or if you are tired. These dangerous driving habits may result in fatal accidents, due to the driver’s lack of alertness, attention, and altered reaction time.

Do not overload your 15 passenger van with cargo and do not use the roof rack. Cargo that is secured on the roof racks of 15 passenger vans, may contribute to the shift of the center of gravity, which makes the vehicle more likely to fish tail. Too much cargo in or on top of a 15 passenger van places all passengers at greater risk for rollover injuries.

Keep your tires in good condition. Tires that are worn, over inflated, or under inflated, will affect how the vehicle handles in various conditions. Icy roads, gravel, wet pavement, and other changes in the road may result in serious injury if the tires cannot properly handle the road.

Drive carefully and cautiously on rural roads. Many rural roads are very curvy and dark, differing greatly from well maintained roads of the city. Be prepared to adjust your speed and change lanes to avoid accidents and prevent rollovers.

Do not operate your vehicle with nine or more passengers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that ten or more passengers in a 15 passenger van will add to the risk of a vehicle rollover. Just like filling the van with too much cargo, the weight of a large number of people will reduce maneuverability and shift the center of gravity.

Wear your seat belt at all times. People who wear seat belts are less likely to sustain serious or fatal injuries in the event of a rollover or vehicle accident, compared to passengers who do not wear seat belts. In fact, passengers who wear seat belts are approximately 75% less likely to die as the result of a 15 passenger van rollover. Passengers who do not wear seat belts are at risk for serious injuries, many times as the result of being ejected from the vehicle.

Learn how to properly maneuver and steer your vehicle in various situations. It is very important to know how to control your vehicle in different emergency situations and avoid over steering and driving off the curb, which may cause 15 passenger vans to rollover. Emergency maneuvering of a 15 passenger van may also cause the van to rollover, resulting in serious injuries.

Be aware of your surrounds. Staying aware of your surrounding may prevent serious accidents from occurring. If you are aware of changes in the weather, road conditions, road construction, and other drivers you will be more informed about what to expect while operating your 15 passenger van.

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a 15 passenger van accident, please contact a 15 Passenger Van Accident Lawyer at Bisnar | Chase immediately. Call today for a free consultation.