SUV & Van Accidents
A particular object's center of gravity--in this case an SUV or Van--will always be contained within the geometric confines of that vehicle as it's oriented in space relative to the pull of gravity. If there's a change in a vehicle's spatial orientation due to the imposition of some external force, the vehicle's center of gravity will shift from its original position as long as that external force persists. That means that the tires, which had supported a vehicle's center of gravity, begin to lose their usefulness as supporting structures relative to the pull of gravity. As a result, the vehicle seeks a new structural support relative to the pull of gravity, like its side or roof. If this change happens fast enough, the vehicle will not only fall over: it will roll.
SUV and van accidents can cause serious personal injury and likely will require a lawyer who is experienced in accident and personal injury law. If you've been in a suv or van accident, you should contact a law firm as soon as possible to be sure your rights are protected.
15-passenger Van Accidents
While 15-passenger vans are convenient, drivers and passengers must use caution to minimize the risks associated with these vehicles. NHTSA research has shown that 15-passenger vans have a rollover risk that increases dramatically as the number of occupants increases from fewer than five to more than ten. In fact, 15-passenger vans with 10 or more occupants had a rollover rate in single vehicle crashes that is nearly three times the rate of those that had fewer than five occupants.
In 2007, fatalities to occupants of 15-passenger vans increased nearly 20% from the previous year. About one-fourth of fatally injured occupants of 15-passsenger vans, over the last 5 years, were drivers. The median age group for drivers killed in 15-passenger vans is 45 to 54; the median age group for passengers is 25 to 34. In 2007, there were 45 fatalities in 15-passenger vans that rolled over, 73% more than in 2006. About 80 percent of the fatally injured van occupants in rollovers in the past 5 years were not restrained.
NHTSA research shows that 15-passenger vans have a much higher rollover risk than other passenger vehicles, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. If you are planning to take a trip in a 15-passenger, here are some safety tips to make sure the trip is a safe one:
- Make sure all passengers are buckled up at all times. NHTSA research shows that 80 percent of the occupants killed in van rollovers were not belted at the time of the crash.
- Make sure the driver has training and experience. Driver inexperience has been a major contributing factor in van crashes.
- Pay special attention to tires prior to a trip. Examine tires for signs of wear and aging, and always check to see if they are properly inflated to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer. Improperly inflated tires are another common contribution to rollover crashes, especially if the van is fully loaded with passengers and luggage.
