Are 15 Passenger Vans Death Traps?

Fifteen-passenger vans are more likely to be involved in a single-vehicle rollover crash than any other type of vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued safety advisories on these vehicles, and has stated that “rollover had been proven to be one of the most significant dangers for 15-passenger vans, with the risk increasing dramatically as the number of occupants increased from fewer than 5 to more than 10.”

It’s often organizations such as schools and churches that use 15 and 12 passenger vans to transport students, athletes, worshipers and other loved ones. But often these organization, and those operating the vehicles, don’t understand the dangers involved with such vehicles.

Duncan Firm represented Jerome Greene & Voices of Triumph, a gospel singing group from Memphis, TN. The group was returning from performing in Chicago when their van rolled, killing two of the passengers. The van was defective and unreasonably dangerous, which is why a confidential settlement was reached with Chrysler on behalf of the clients.

The NHTSA has released a new set of safety recommendations for the use of 15 passenger vans, which you can view here.

If you have been injured in a van accident, please call 877-638-6226 or contact us online today for a no cost, no obligation consultation. We look forward to working with you.