Many studies indicate that 15-passenger vans are inherently dangerous, yet they continue to be used for a variety of reasons. If your hotel picks you up from the airport, chances are good that it will be a 15-passenger van that transports you. If you take a tour while on vacation, you may very well be riding in a 15-passenger van.
They are used because they’re convenient and because people are unaware of the dangers. As a result, many innocent victims are killed or injured in accidents that might have been avoided if they were riding in safer transportation.
The following 15-passenger vans are the ones most commonly involved in accidents:
- Ford Motor Company, models E350 and Club Wagon E350
- Dodge Ram Wagon B350 and Ram Van Wagon B3500 (produced by Chrysler)
- Chevrolet Express, 3500 (produced by General Motors)
- The GMC Savana and the Rally/Vandura G3500
The same flaws exist in all 15-passenger vans so regardless of the make or model, these vans are basically one of the most unsafe vehicles on the highways.
Do I Need an Attorney?
If you or a loved one has been in an accident while riding in a 15-passenger van, you may want to contact an attorney to see if you can file for damages. Most attorneys offer free consultations and will be able to tell you in one interview whether or not you have a case.
Don’t wait!
Most states have a statute of limitations for automobile accidents during which time you can file a claim. Be sure to find out what the statue of limitations is for the state you live in.
An attorney will be able to help you determine:
- Who is liable
- Establish the extent of damages
- Determine where to collect damages
If you do have a case, retrieving the van will be essential in gathering evidence of negligence resulting in injury or wrongful death.
What Kind of Attorney do I Need?
You need a personal injury lawyer. Personal injury lawyers have experience with automobile accidents and are adept at looking over your claim from all angles and determining whether or not you have a case. He or she will be able to assess who is responsible and will take care of all the details involved in organizing and presenting your case.
How do I Find a Good Attorney?
Word-of-mouth is always a good way to find a good attorney, but don’t let personal recommendations take the place of good research. Ask friends and co-workers. Browse your local paper. Use the internet.
Check to see if anyone has written a recommendation on this lawyer. Interview at least three lawyers before making a decision. Go with your gut, but keep your senses. If you have recently been in an accident or lost a loved one, you are, no doubt, traumatized. You need a lawyer you can trust and who will have your best interests at heart.
What will it Cost?
Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis. They are paid a percentage of the settlement. You should be sure beforehand whether or not there will be fees if they do not win the case. Some lawyers will accept terms where they are paid a percentage ONLY if they win the case. Percentages typically run between 30-40 percent.
Your attorney will give you a detailed agreement to read before taking on your case. Be sure to read it carefully and to ask for clarification on points you don’t understand. A good attorney will take the time to make sure you are completely clear on all the details.
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