15-passenger vans are a popular option for youth groups, senior groups, airport shuttles and the like for transporting a large group of people at one time. However, these large vans carry a significant risk of rollover and instability in handling, especially when overloaded. Every year in the U.S., 15-passenger vans are involved in thousands of auto accidents, resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities. Here’s what you can do to minimize the risk and keep large passenger vans safe on the road:

Don’t overload the van. The more cargo and passengers the van is carrying, the more the center of gravity will shift upward and rearward, increasing risk of rollover. In fact, 15-passenger vans are three times as likely to rollover when loaded with more than 10 passengers.

Make sure the van is properly maintained. Like with any vehicle, it’s important to make sure your van is mechanically sound before embarking on any trip.

Ensure the driver has sufficient experience operating large passenger vans. Be aware that drivers may require additional training for driving 15-passenger vans, especially when fully loaded.

Check tire pressure and condition before every trip. Low tire pressure makes handling more difficult, increasing risk of losing control of the vehicle. Refer to the vehicle manual for the recommended tire pressure and make sure tires are at the level before leaving. Front and rear tires may require different tire pressures. Also, check tires for uneven wear, cracks and other significant damage.

Buckle up. In the event of an accident, wearing a seatbelt can help prevent life-threatening injuries and deaths.

If you or a loved one has been harmed in a passenger van accident, seek legal help immediately. The personal injury attorneys at Skousen, Gulbrandsen and Patience of Mesa are very experienced handling cases involving injuries, fatalities or negligence in the greater Phoenix area. Contact us for a free initial consultation.

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