The high rate of accidents, particularly rollover accidents involving 15-passenger vans has been frighteningly high, leading to a number of studies to learn more about what some call “Death on Wheels.” These studies have had significantly raised public awareness about the dangers of these vans. They are being used less frequently and, in some cases are illegal for transporting children.
However, statistics are not always consistent. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) claims that fatalities have declined 35% since 2001 when these advisories began, a study by Whitfield Quality Control Systems states that this is erroneous–that there are even more fatal accidents today than in the past.
The following are some of the significant findings regarding the safety of 15-passenger vans:
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been involved in some of the key research concerning these vans. Their research indicates that:
- Risk of rollovers increases significantly when 10 or more passengers ride in a 15–passenger van.
- Wearing a seatbelt greatly increases the chances of survival. Passengers and drivers should ALWAYS buckle up.
- Roofs are inadequately reinforced. Even when passengers are wearing seat belts, they will not satisfactorily prevent massive crushing that results in death, traumatic brain injuries or severed spinal cords.
- Vans should be operated only by well-trained drivers who understand the handling mechanisms of these vehicles, especially when fully loaded.
- Any load on the roof will be above the center of gravity and increase the possibility of a rollover in an emergency maneuver.
- Speed plays a role in many accidents. Approximately 25% of all accidents are the result of excessive speed. In 15-passenger vans, this is even more significant as speeds that may be acceptable in a smaller passenger car can be highly dangerous in these vans.
One study also indicated the importance of tire safety. Because of the extra weight these vans often carry, there is more than usual wear and tear on the tires. Tires should be checked at least once a month for signs of wear, overinflation or underinflation.
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