Passenger vans may be used for a variety of transportation services. For instance, companies may use them to offer clients and customers courtesy rides to and from the airport. They may also be employed to transport patients to and from medical facilities. And there are charter services that use passenger vans for custom trips and tours.
Passenger vans offer many advantages to travelers. But unfortunately, they also come with certain safety issues, chief among which is an increased potential for rolling over. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration believes that passenger van rollovers are of such concern that they have dedicated a page on its website to raise public awareness about the issues.
According to research conducted by the NHTSA, there are three key factors that can contribute to an increased risk of passenger van rollovers, which are as follows:
- Passengers and cargo that are incorrectly loaded, which affects the van's center of gravity.
- Drivers who lack the experience to safely operate a van.
- Tires that are the wrong size or not properly inflated.
Of course, there are steps that companies that run vans can take to lessen the likelihood of rollover accidents. First, they should only employ drivers who have the skills and experience necessary to safely transport passengers. Also, prior to every trip, vans should be inspected. This especially applies to the tires, which should be inflated to correct pressure or replaced if well worn.
If you board a passenger van, you have every right to expect the vehicle is roadworthy and the driver is properly licensed and capable of handling his or her duties safely. Any motor vehicle accident is bad news. But rollovers are likely the most devastating.
A rollover can cause serious injuries to all parts of the body, including the brain and spine. If you were a passenger in a commercial van accident, an Illinois personal injury attorney may be able to help you get the compensation you need for your recovery.