Have you ever taken a private passenger shuttle to a wedding, a special event or on a tour? While the majority of these rides are safe, these vans are prone to rollover accidents—and they can be fatal, especially when passengers fail to wear their seatbelts.

Here’s what you should know about passenger vans and rollover accidents.

Passenger van rollover statistics

This study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that a large proportion of fatal passenger van accidents happened during single-vehicle rollover accidents. Out of the people who were properly restrained—that is, wearing seatbelts—92 percent survived. On the other hand, people who did not wear their seatbelts had a 72 percent chance of being ejected. People wearing seatbelts only had an 18 percent chance of ejection.

According to the NHTSA, “15-passenger vans with 10 or more occupants on board are three times more likely to roll over in a crash than those with fewer than five occupants.” These sobering statistics are an important reminder to buckle up, even when you’re just going a mile or two.

Why do passenger vans roll over?

While the usual reasons for vehicle accidents can apply, passenger vans have some specific issues that make them more likely to roll over. First, their center of gravity is higher than the average vehicle. They’re higher off the road, and they may be top-heavy, depending on whether there’s any luggage stored underneath the passenger compartment. When the van has to come to an abrupt stop or change direction suddenly, it’s more likely to tip over and crash. Similarly, it’s more susceptible to high winds.

Second, passenger vans have decreased visibility and bigger blind spots than standard passenger vehicles. Drivers may not be able to accurately gauge distances or see obstacles, thanks to the size and shape of the van. Passenger vans also need longer stopping distances due to their increased size and weight. Inexperienced drivers may not have the skills necessary to handle the car appropriately—which can prove disastrous, since passenger vans are more difficult to handle than the average vehicle.

If you take a passenger van, always use the seatbelts provided. Although most journeys are uneventful, there’s a higher risk of rollover accidents. Failing to buckle up could be a painful mistake. Fortunately, the Law Offices of Tim Misny are happy to review your claim and help you pursue compensation, if available.

Call an Ohio accident attorney today

The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your passenger van accident claim. If you or a loved one were injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.