Fifteen-passenger vans, although an exceedingly popular mode of transportation, are more prone to rollover accidents than any other type of motor vehicle.  San Francisco van injury lawyers want you to know that van popularity is due in part to their capability of transporting large numbers of passengers and cargo.

Passenger vans are commonly used as a method of transportation for business groups, daycare centers, religious groups, seniors, and sports teams.  With numerous passengers on board, there is more opportunity for distractions and a greater number of accident victims, should a catastrophe occur. Although, fifteen-passenger vans are characteristically used for commercial purposes, a commercial driver’s license is not required to operate them.

The likelihood of an accident increases when the vehicle becomes overloaded with passengers, seat belts are not used, tires are not properly inflated, or inadequate room is left between the passenger van and other vehicles.  Storing luggage on the roof causes a passenger van to become top heavy, contributing to rollover accidents.

When fully loaded, the center of gravity rises substantially and shifts toward the rear of the vehicle.  In an emergency situation, the vehicle becomes very hard to handle.  Rollover accidents can occur if the driver suddenly changes lanes or makes a sharp turn.  In the event of an accident the roof or sides of a passenger van may collapse, causing fatalities or serious injuries to the passengers.  Very little protection is available for passengers in the vehicle.  Injuries sustained in a passenger van accident range from brain and related mental impairment to spinal injuries and broken bones.

If you have been injured while driving or riding in a fifteen-passenger van, you may be able to seek financial compensation for accident related costs.  Contact Ehline Law at (888) 480-9786, for a comprehensive legal evaluation of your case.

Michael P. Ehline is a highly qualified personal injury attorney who possesses the expertise needed to successfully recover the maximum physical as well as property compensation you deserve.  In some cases, victims may be able to seek monetary damages from the driver in addition to the passenger van company.