On Tuesday afternoon, there was an injury crash involving a church van in Henderson County. According to WLOS ABC News Channel 13, the incident happened in Edneyville at about 12:45 p.m. Very little information has been released about this van crash, but we do know that at least six people were injured. Initial reports indicate that the church van left the roadway and struck a tree. No other vehicles were involved in this crash. No information has been released on the cause of the wreck, which is likely still under investigation with local law enforcement officials. At the time of the news report, no charges or citations had been filed.
Passenger Van Rollover Risk
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), 15-passenger vans have a rollover risk that increase dramatically as the number of occupants increases from fewer than five to more than 10. Passenger vans should never be loaded with more occupants than they can safely accommodate with seat belts. These vehicles have a higher center of gravity than smaller traditional passenger occupant vehicles. Improper or inadequate tire maintenance can lead to blowouts, which can also put the van at risk for a rollover crash.
12 and 15-Passenger Van Safety
In addition to over-occupancy and inadequate tire maintenance, a variety of factors can increase the dangers associated with 12 and 15-passenger vans. Speeding, driver inattention, driver inexperience and rooftop cargo can increase the likelihood of van accidents. Since these types of vehicle are seldom used as everyday drivers, drivers and owners too often overlook issues like tires, maintenance and safety.
Van Accidents in Asheville
After any kind of accident involving an organization’s passenger van, it’s important to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your case. It’s essential to determine the cause of the crash, and what could have been done to prevent it. In many preventable crashes involving passenger vans, it boils down to inadequate maintenance and a lack of attention and awareness about safe driving practices.
If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in an accident involving a 12 or 15-passenger van, contact the skilled and proven Personal Injury team at Davis Law Group, P.A. at 828-303-2842 for a free case consultation today.