Risks of 15-Passenger Vans

Group trips and tours can be a lot of fun. Once the planner/coordinator decides on a mode of transportation that can carry the number of people, the trip is practically set. But the best vehicle for the number of people is not necessarily the safest. Buses are usually used for large groups, but what if you only have 10 to 15 people? With a smaller group, 15-passenger vans tend to be the most popular vehicle. Various groups and organizations, from churches, colleges, hotels, airports, and tour companies regularly use these types of vehicles. Though widely used, 15-passenger vans are actually highly unsafe.

The Problems with 15-Passenger Vans

15-passenger vans were not designed to carry passengers originally. These vehicles were manufactured as cargo vans, and, even though they have been used to carry passengers, they were never redesigned to ensure passenger safety.

Passenger Van Specifics

Passenger vans usually have 5 rows of seats to seat up to 15 people, including the driver. They are federally classified as buses due to their size and must comply with bus safety standards, which have, historically, not been strict enough. Passenger vans are wider, longer, and higher off the ground than typical passenger vehicles, resulting in a higher center of gravity, heavier reliance on side mirrors for changing lanes, more difficult handling, and longer braking distances. Due to these issues, these vans are at an increased risk of traffic accidents, especially rollover crashes.

NHTSA Passenger Van Rollover Contributing Factors

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are three major contributing factors to passenger van rollover accidents: 

1. Inexperienced drivers;


2. Improperly sized and/or inflated tires; and


3. Incorrectly loaded passengers and/or cargo.

 When to Contact a Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney

If you or a loved has been injured in a Massachusetts passenger van accident, the reputed Boston15-passenger van rollover attorneys with the Kiley Law Group can help you pursue financial compensation for the losses and damages you have suffered as the result of negligent drivers and/or auto manufacturers. To speak to one of our lawyers about your potential claim, contact us today for a free legal consultation at (888) 208-1695.