According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 15-passenger vans are more likely to be involved in single-vehicle rollover accidents than any other type of automobile. Public Citizen calls these vans “extremely hazardous vehicles” that are prone to rollover and result in devastating crashes. The group has called for a halt in manufacturing the vans – to no avail.
If you or a loved one was seriously hurt or killed in an accident involving one of these vans, you may want to contact an experienced attorney for a free evaluation of your case. Kline & Specter, PC is a Philadelphia law firm that represents motor vehicle accident victims throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and nationwide.
Statistics on the Dangers of 15-Passenger Van Rollovers
The design and loading of 15-passenger vans contribute significantly to their rollover risk. Below are some key statistics highlighting the dangers:
- Occupancy impact: From 1997 to 2006, 70% of fatal crashes involving 15-passenger vans with 10 or more occupants resulted in rollovers, compared to only 25% for those with fewer than 10 occupants.
- Single-vehicle rollover risk: 81% of van rollover fatalities did not involve other vehicles.
- Tire failure: Nearly 11% of fatal 15-passenger-van rollover crashes were attributed to tire failure before new safety standards were implemented in 2005.
Legal Rights of 15-Passenger Van Accident Victims
Victims of 15-passenger van accidents have specific legal rights that may entitle them to compensation for their injuries and damages. If you or a loved one was injured, you may have the right to:
- Seek compensation for damages: Victims can pursue claims for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other accident-related costs.
- File a product liability claim: Given the known design flaws in 15-passenger vans, you may have grounds for a product liability claim against manufacturers if vehicle defects contributed to the accident.
- Hold the driver or organization liable: If the accident was caused by driver negligence or inadequate maintenance by the van’s owner (such as a church or school), you may hold the responsible parties accountable.
- Receive a free legal evaluation: Kline & Specter offers a free evaluation of your case to help you understand your rights and potential avenues for recovery.
Steps to Take After a 15-Passenger Van Accident
After you've been involved in a 15-passenger van accident, follow these steps immediately to protect your legal rights:
- Contact law enforcement: Make sure there is an official report documenting the accident details. This report can be valuable evidence for your claim.
- Collect evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses and other parties involved.
- Avoid admissions of fault: Do not admit fault or make detailed statements about the accident until you’ve spoken with a legal professional.
- Contact an experienced attorney: Reach out to Kline & Specter for a free consultation. Having a knowledgeable attorney early in the process helps you protect your rights and build a strong case.
Why Choose Kline & Specter, PC?
Kline & Specter, PC has a proven track record of success and expertise that sets us apart from other law firms. Established in 1995 by Tom Kline and Shanin Specter, the firm has grown from a small team to occupying 12 floors at its Philadelphia headquarters, with over 50 attorneys — five of whom are also medical doctors, the highest number in any U.S. firm. This unique expertise allows us to handle more complex cases, particularly those involving catastrophic injuries like passenger van accidents.
With hundreds of multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, Kline & Specter has earned its reputation as one of the nation’s top personal injury firms. Named a "powerhouse" by The New York Times and "the most powerful plaintiffs firm in the city" by the Philadelphia Business Journal, Kline & Specter offers unmatched experience, resources, and dedication to securing justice and compensation for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still File a Claim if I Wasn’t Wearing a Seatbelt During the Accident?
Yes, you can still file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt. However, your compensation may be reduced under the comparative negligence rule, as not wearing a seatbelt could be seen as contributing to the severity of your injuries.
How Are 15-Passenger Vans Different from Other Vehicles?
15-passenger vans have unique risks compared to other vehicles:
- High rollover rate: Their design and high center of gravity make them more prone to rollovers than regular vehicles.
- Instability when loaded: Heavily loaded vans are more likely to fishtail and lose control during sudden maneuvers.
- Tire blowouts: These vans are more vulnerable to tire failures, often due to poor maintenance or design flaws.
- Lack of safety features: Many older models lack modern stability control systems, increasing rollover risks.
What Should I Do if I Suspect My Van Is Unsafe or Has a Defect?
If you suspect your van has a defect, stop using it and report the issue to the manufacturer and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Document any concerns, such as unusual noises or handling issues, and contact an attorney if the defect has already caused an accident.
Does Insurance Cover Accidents Involving 15-Passenger Vans, and What Types of Coverage Apply?
Yes, insurance typically covers accidents involving 15-passenger vans, but coverage types may vary. Liability insurance covers damages you cause to others, while comprehensive and collision insurance can cover damage to your vehicle. Additional policies like uninsured motorist coverage may also apply.
Protect Your Rights After a 15-Passenger Van Accident
The team at Kline & Specter, PC has had success litigating product liability and auto accident lawsuits in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, New York, and nationwide. Please call 215-772-1000 to speak with a team member today and schedule a free case evaluation.
