Philadelphia 15-Passenger Van Rollover Attorney Salutes “Car Chick” Ruth Manuel-Logan - Warns Against Inherent 15-Passenger Van Dangers
I recently had the privilege of attending the inauguration of President Barack Obama in Washington, DC and similarly to Ruth Manuel-Logan was astounded when I noted how many 15-passenger vans were on I-95 southbound from Philadelphia traveling to the inauguration containing innocent children, churchgoers and others who were unknowingly traveling in one of the most dangerous vehicles on the road - the 15-passenger van.
Most of the time,15-passenger vans are operated by individuals who have not been trained or experienced with the most specific handling dynamics of the 15-passenger van. In fact, for many years, I had been an occupant in the 15-passenger van and allowed my children to attend camp and school while traveling in a 15-passenger van until I became aware of its dangers after representing many individuals and families who had lost loved ones or sustained catastrophic injuries as a result of a 15-passenger van accident. Surprisingly, or really not surprisingly (after one becomes aware of the dynamics and stability factors of these vehicles), three out of every four 15-passenger vans that overturned did not collide with another vehicle but overturned because of an inherent manufacturers design defect while executing a foreseeable accident avoidance or other sudden maneuver.
On my website at www.reiffandbily.com I have referenced many articles regarding the safety and handling dynamics of 15-passenger vans. However, at this point, I would like to salute and reiterate some of the tips set forth by Ruth Manuel-Logan on her site. When a 15-passenger van is not full, passengers should sit in seats that are in front of the rear axle. If the seating capacity of the van is 15 then this number should never be exceeded. However, I would caution anyone about getting into a 15-passenger van with more than six people if you have to ride in one at all. Drivers of 15-passenger vans should keep in mind that there is a rear overhang and that the vehicle is longer and wider than an automobile and often times lead to unstable conditions during an accident avoidance maneuver or making sudden turns. These vehicles require additional braking time and do not respond well to sudden movements. The driver of a 15-passenger van should be trained and experienced and the safety of the passengers should be of the utmost priority. It is important that all passengers fasten their seat belts to reduce the risk of ejection, serious injury or death. Additionally:
1. Never drive a 15-passenger van, or any vehicle for that matter, under the influence of drugs or alcohol or while in a tired state. Never drive while drowsy.
2. Always refrain from using your cell phone or texting while operating a vehicle.
3. If the roads are wet or icy, slow down, be cautious.
4. Rural roads with turns and curves are treacherous for 15-passenger vans and other SUVs.
5. Allow longer stopping and following distances.
6. Plan your turns in advance to allow for adequate space.
7. Don’t be too proud to ask passengers for assistance if needed to verify maneuvering for merging.
8. If the wheels drop off the pavement, reduce your speed, keep cool and carefully steer back onto the road when it is safe to do so.
9. Always check to make sure the tires are properly inflated at least once a month and that there are no cracks or wear in the tires. Worn tires can cause the van to slide sideways and in fact, one of the most common causes of van rollover is due to a blow out or tire failure. If your tires are not properly inflated or situated, you can risk a blow out and hence, serious injuries or death.
10. Always load and unload passengers in a safe place.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a 15-passenger van accident, please feel free to call the experienced 15-passenger van rollover attorneys at the Philadelphia law firm of Reiff and Bily at 1-800-421-9595 or online at www.reiffandbily.com. If you would like more information regarding 15-passenger vans, please feel free to browse our website and related articles or call for a free consultation.
