Fatal Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer

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Fatal 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawsuit in Mississippi

15-passenger vans are commonly used by churches, schools, sports teams, and businesses to transport groups of people across Mississippi. While these vehicles are practical, they also pose serious safety risks, particularly when overloaded or driven by inexperienced drivers. When a 15-passenger van accident turns fatal, families are left facing unimaginable grief and financial hardship.

At Barrett Law, PLLC, we understand the devastation caused by these accidents and are committed to holding negligent parties accountable. Jonathan Barrett, an experienced Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer, fights for families who have lost loved ones in these tragic crashes. If your family has suffered a loss due to a fatal 15-passenger van accident, we are here to help you seek justice and the compensation you deserve.

Why Are 15-Passenger Vans So Dangerous?

Unlike standard passenger vehicles, 15-passenger vans have a higher center of gravity, making them prone to rollovers. Their longer body structure increases the risk of instability, especially when fully loaded. Many of these vehicles lack modern safety features found in newer cars, making them less forgiving in a collision.

Common Causes of 15-Passenger Van Accidents

  1. Driver Error – Many drivers of these vans are not properly trained or experienced in handling large vehicles.
  2. Tire Blowouts – Underinflated or worn-out tires significantly increase the risk of rollovers.
  3. Overloading – Exceeding weight limits makes the van harder to control and more likely to tip over.
  4. Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Neglecting brakes, steering, and suspension systems can lead to deadly accidents.
  5. Distracted Driving – Use of cell phones, GPS, or distractions from passengers can cause crashes.
  6. Drowsy Driving – Many fatal 15-passenger van accidents occur when drivers fall asleep at the wheel.
  7. Speeding or Reckless Driving – Larger vehicles take longer to stop and are harder to maneuver at high speeds.

Due to these dangers, federal agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have issued warnings about the risks associated with 15-passenger vans.

Who is Affected by 15-Passenger Van Accidents?

The victims of 15-passenger van accidents include:

  • Church groups, school children, and sports teams – Organizations frequently use these vans for group travel, making them vulnerable to fatal crashes.
  • Businesses and transportation services – Companies operating these vans for employee transport or shuttle services must ensure proper training and maintenance.
  • Families of Wrongful Death Victims – When these accidents turn deadly, families are left facing emotional trauma, funeral costs, and financial burdens.

At Barrett Law, PLLC, we represent families who have lost loved ones in fatal van crashes, helping them pursue justice through wrongful death lawsuits.

Legal Obligations & Mississippi Laws on 15-Passenger Vans

Mississippi law holds drivers, van owners, businesses, and manufacturers accountable for their roles in these accidents.

Key Legal Considerations

  1. Negligence – If a driver was speeding, distracted, or driving recklessly, they can be held liable.
  2. Employer Liability – If a company or church-owned van was involved, the organization may be responsible.
  3. Product Liability Claims – If a van had defective brakes, faulty tires, or stability issues, the manufacturer may be liable.
  4. Federal Safety Regulations – Federal law requires 15-passenger vans to meet certain safety standards, and non-compliance can lead to liability.

Mississippi Wrongful Death Law

Under Mississippi Code § 11-7-13, the surviving spouse, children, parents, or estate representatives of a deceased accident victim can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Damages may include:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Lost wages and financial support
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of companionship

Mississippi has a three-year statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits, meaning families must act quickly to file a claim.

What to Do If You Have Lost a Loved One in a 15-Passenger Van Accident

If your family has suffered a loss, taking the right steps can help strengthen your legal case:

  1. Obtain the Police Report – Official accident reports provide critical details.
  2. Preserve Evidence – Gather photos, witness statements, and vehicle maintenance records.
  3. Do Not Speak to Insurance Companies Alone – Insurers often try to minimize payouts in fatal accident claims.
  4. Consult a Lawyer Immediately – An experienced Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer can investigate your case and determine liability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fatal 15-Passenger Van Accidents

Who can be held responsible for a fatal 15-passenger van accident?
Liability may fall on the driver, van owner, rental company, manufacturer, or another negligent party. Each case is different, and an investigation is required.

Can I file a wrongful death lawsuit in Mississippi if my family member died in a van crash?
Yes. Spouses, children, parents, and estate representatives may file a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for their loss.

What if the accident was caused by bad weather?
Even if weather conditions played a role, a driver or organization may still be held liable if they failed to take proper precautions.

Are 15-passenger vans banned in Mississippi?
No, but several federal agencies strongly discourage their use for school transportation due to safety concerns.

How much is a wrongful death lawsuit worth?
Compensation depends on factors like lost income, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and funeral costs. Cases involving gross negligence or defective vehicles may result in higher settlements.

What if the van was rented from a commercial company?
If a rental company provided an unsafe or poorly maintained vehicle, they may be liable for damages.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
Mississippi law allows three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim.

What if my loved one was partially at fault?
Mississippi follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning families can still recover damages even if the victim was partially responsible.

Can I sue if my loved one was a passenger in a church or school van?
Yes. If the church, school, or organization failed to properly maintain the van or train the driver, they may be held accountable.

Why should I hire Barrett Law, PLLC for my case?
Jonathan Barrett has decades of experience fighting for Mississippi families in fatal accident cases. Our firm aggressively pursues compensation while providing compassionate legal support.

Injured or Lost a Loved One in a 15-Passenger Van Accident in Mississippi? Call Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer Jonathan Barrett 24/7/365 at (601) 790-1505 for Your FREE Consultation

Losing a loved one in a 15-passenger van accident is a devastating experience. Barrett Law, PLLC is here to fight for your family and hold negligent drivers, van owners, manufacturers, and rental companies accountable.

We represent families across Mississippi, including Jackson, Madison, Ridgeland, Richland, Pearl, Vicksburg, Brandon, Hattiesburg, Gulfport, Biloxi, Olive Branch, Tupelo, Meridian, Southaven, Greenville, Oxford, Clinton, and Horn Lake.

Call (601) 790-1505 today for your FREE consultation—available 24/7/365. Let us fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.

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Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer

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15-Passenger Van Accident Lawsuit in Mississippi

15-passenger vans are widely used by schools, churches, businesses, and organizations for group transportation. While they may seem convenient, these vehicles come with serious safety risks, particularly due to rollover hazards, driver inexperience, and poor vehicle stability. Accidents involving 15-passenger vans can lead to severe injuries and fatalities, leaving victims and families facing devastating losses.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a 15-passenger van accident in Mississippi, you need a dedicated legal advocate to help you recover the compensation you deserve. At Barrett Law, PLLC, Jonathan Barrett, a Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer, has spent decades representing victims and their families, ensuring they receive full and fair compensation for their injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

If you’ve been affected by a 15-passenger van accident, contact Barrett Law, PLLC today at (601) 790-1505 for a FREE consultation. We serve clients across Jackson, Gulfport, Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Meridian, and all of Mississippi.

Why Are 15-Passenger Vans So Dangerous?

Unlike smaller passenger vehicles, 15-passenger vans have unique safety challenges that make them more prone to accidents, including:

1. Rollover Risks

  • The high center of gravity increases the likelihood of rollovers, especially when the van is fully loaded.
  • When carrying 10 or more passengers, the risk of a rollover increases dramatically.

2. Tire Blowouts and Stability Issues

  • Many 15-passenger van accidents occur due to tire failures, which can lead to loss of control.
  • Underinflated or worn-out tires significantly increase accident risks.

3. Driver Inexperience

  • Many organizations allow untrained or inexperienced drivers to operate 15-passenger vans.
  • Unlike smaller vehicles, these vans require specialized driving techniques to handle turns, braking, and lane changes safely.

4. Lack of Seat Belt Use

  • Many passengers in these vans fail to wear seat belts, leading to serious injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash.
  • Mississippi law requires seat belt use, but many organizations do not enforce it properly in vans.

These safety concerns make 15-passenger van accidents more likely to result in catastrophic injuries or death. If negligence played a role in your accident, Barrett Law, PLLC is prepared to fight for your rights.

Who Is Affected by 15-Passenger Van Accidents?

These accidents often affect groups traveling together, including:

  • Church Groups & Religious Organizations
  • Schools & Universities
  • Youth Sports Teams
  • Daycare Centers & Childcare Services
  • Tourism & Shuttle Services
  • Corporate & Employee Transportation

When a 15-passenger van accident occurs, multiple passengers may be injured or killed, making these cases more complex than standard car accident claims. Jonathan Barrett and Barrett Law, PLLC are ready to handle these difficult cases and ensure that victims receive the justice they deserve.

Legal Responsibilities & Relevant Mississippi Laws

When 15-passenger van accidents occur, several Mississippi and federal laws may come into play.

1. Negligent Driving & Liability

Mississippi law holds drivers and owners accountable for negligence, including:

  • Speeding or Reckless Driving – Large vans require longer stopping distances and careful handling.
  • Improperly Loaded Vans – Overloading the van or placing heavy cargo on the roof increases rollover risks.
  • Distracted Driving – Many untrained drivers fail to pay attention to their surroundings.

2. Employer & Organization Liability

If the van was operated by a school, church, business, or other organization, the organization itself may be held liable for:

  • Failing to train drivers properly
  • Not maintaining the vehicle (such as using worn-out tires)
  • Allowing an unqualified driver to operate the van

3. Federal Safety Regulations for 15-Passenger Vans

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns against using 15-passenger vans for transporting children due to the high risk of rollovers. Organizations that ignore these warnings may be found negligent if an accident occurs.

If you or your loved one suffered injuries in a 15-passenger van accident, Barrett Law, PLLC can help determine who is responsible and hold them accountable for your losses.

What to Do After a 15-Passenger Van Accident in Mississippi

Taking the right steps after a 15-passenger van accident can protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim:

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  2. Call Law Enforcement – Ensure an official accident report is filed.
  3. Document the Accident Scene – Take photos of the van, road conditions, injuries, and vehicle damage.
  4. Gather Witness Information – Obtain contact details from passengers and bystanders.
  5. Do Not Sign Anything from the Insurance Company – Insurance adjusters often offer low settlements. Speak to an attorney first.
  6. Contact a Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer – Jonathan Barrett will review your case and fight for full compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What damages can I recover in a 15-passenger van accident case?
Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, long-term disability, and emotional trauma. Families in wrongful death cases may recover funeral costs and loss of companionship.

Who can be held responsible for a 15-passenger van accident?
Liability may fall on:

  • The driver (if negligent)
  • The van’s owner (if improperly maintained)
  • The organization responsible for transportation
  • Vehicle manufacturers (if a defect caused the crash)

What if the van had defective tires or brakes?
If faulty parts contributed to the accident, you may have a claim against the manufacturer or maintenance company.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
Mississippi law generally allows three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim.

What if my loved one was killed in a 15-passenger van accident?
You may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover funeral expenses, lost financial support, and pain and suffering.

What if I was partially at fault?
Mississippi follows comparative negligence laws, meaning you can still recover compensation, but it may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

Do I need a lawyer for a 15-passenger van accident?
Yes. These cases are complex, often involving multiple victims, insurance companies, and organizations. An experienced Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer can maximize your compensation.

Injured or Lost a Loved One in a 15-Passenger Van Accident in Mississippi? Call Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Accident Lawyer Jonathan Barrett 24/7/365 at (601) 790-1505 for Your FREE Consultation

If you or a loved one were injured in a 15-passenger van accident, don’t wait to take action. Barrett Law, PLLC is dedicated to helping victims across Mississippi, including Jackson, Madison, Ridgeland, Richland, Pearl, Vicksburg, Brandon, Hattiesburg, Gulfport, Biloxi, Olive Branch, Tupelo, Meridian, Southaven, Greenville, Oxford, Clinton, and Horn Lake.

📞 Call (601) 790-1505 24/7/365 for a FREE consultation. Let Jonathan Barrett fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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Mississippi Sideswipe Accident Lawyer

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Sideswipe Accident Lawsuits in Mississippi

Sideswipe accidents may seem minor compared to head-on or rear-end collisions, but they often result in significant damage, serious injuries, and even fatalities. These accidents frequently occur when one vehicle drifts out of its lane or during unsafe lane changes, leading to contact between vehicles traveling side by side. The consequences can be devastating, especially on highways or roads with high-speed traffic.

At Barrett Law, PLLC, we understand the challenges sideswipe accident victims face. Attorney Jonathan Barrett, a seasoned Mississippi Sideswipe Accident Lawyer, has decades of experience helping victims and their families recover full compensation for their losses. If you or a loved one have been injured in a sideswipe accident in Mississippi, you need a skilled attorney to ensure justice is served and the responsible party is held accountable.

Understanding Sideswipe Accidents

A sideswipe accident occurs when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle traveling in the same or opposite direction. While some sideswipes may cause minor cosmetic damage, others can result in catastrophic injuries if the impact forces one or both vehicles off the road or into other lanes of traffic.

Common Causes of Sideswipe Accidents:

  • Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted may drift out of their lane.
  • Improper lane changes: Failing to check blind spots or use turn signals can result in a collision.
  • Aggressive driving: Speeding, tailgating, or weaving between lanes increases the risk of sideswipe accidents.
  • Fatigued driving: Drowsy drivers may lose focus and veer into adjacent lanes.
  • Drunk driving: Impaired drivers often struggle to maintain control and stay in their lane.
  • Road conditions: Slippery roads or debris can cause vehicles to veer into other lanes unexpectedly.

Injuries and Damages in Sideswipe Accidents

Even at low speeds, sideswipe accidents can lead to severe injuries due to the sudden force of impact. Common injuries include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries that may result in partial or complete paralysis
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) caused by head impact
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and torn ligaments
  • Internal organ damage due to the force of the collision

In the most tragic cases, sideswipe accidents can result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with the emotional and financial burden of losing a loved one. At Barrett Law, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping victims and their families recover compensation for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Funeral and burial costs in wrongful death cases

Who Is Affected and Why?

Sideswipe accidents affect drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Victims are often:

  • Innocent motorists who are hit by distracted or negligent drivers.
  • Motorcyclists and bicyclists who suffer severe injuries due to their lack of protection.
  • Pedestrians hit by vehicles pushed off the road during a sideswipe collision.

The emotional, physical, and financial toll on these victims can be immense. Jonathan Barrett and the team at Barrett Law, PLLC, have the experience and resources to fight for maximum compensation for those affected.

Legal Obligations and Mississippi Statutes

Under Mississippi law, drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly to prevent harm to others. When drivers fail to maintain their lane, signal lane changes, or exercise due caution, they may be held liable for any resulting damages.

Relevant Mississippi Laws:

  • Mississippi Code § 63-3-611: Requires drivers to use turn signals when changing lanes or turning.
  • Mississippi Code § 63-3-601: Obligates drivers to stay within their designated lane unless it is safe to change lanes.
  • Mississippi Comparative Negligence Rule: Allows victims to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, as long as their fault does not exceed 50%.

Victims typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit under Mississippi’s statute of limitations. However, building a strong case requires acting quickly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and preserve records.

Practical Steps After a Sideswipe Accident

If you’ve been involved in a sideswipe accident in Mississippi, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of securing fair compensation:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately: Even if you feel fine, injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical records are also crucial evidence for your case.
  2. Call law enforcement: A police report documenting the accident can serve as key evidence in proving liability.
  3. Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the damage to your vehicle. Collect contact information from witnesses.
  4. Avoid admitting fault: Do not apologize or admit blame, as this could be used against you later.
  5. Consult a lawyer: Contact an experienced sideswipe accident lawyer like Jonathan Barrett to evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the other driver denies responsibility?
If the other driver denies fault, gather as much evidence as possible, including photos, witness statements, and the police report. An experienced attorney can help prove liability through a thorough investigation.

Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Mississippi’s comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages as long as your fault does not exceed 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How do I prove the other driver was at fault?
Proving fault often requires evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and physical evidence from the scene.

What types of damages can I recover in a sideswipe accident lawsuit?
Victims may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. In wrongful death cases, families may recover funeral costs and loss of companionship.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case.

Can I handle the insurance claim on my own?
While you can handle your own claim, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Working with an experienced lawyer ensures you receive the full compensation you deserve.

What if the other driver’s insurance company offers me a settlement?
Do not accept any settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often offer low settlements to close cases quickly. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair amount.

Do I need to go to court for a sideswipe accident claim?
Not necessarily. Many claims are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend taking the case to court.

Why should I hire Barrett Law, PLLC?
Jonathan Barrett has decades of experience representing sideswipe accident victims across Mississippi. He provides personalized attention and aggressively fights for maximum compensation.

What if the at-fault driver is uninsured?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Injured or Lost a Loved One in a Sideswipe Accident in Mississippi? Call Mississippi Sideswipe Accident Lawyer Jonathan Barrett 24/7/365 at (601) 790-1505 for Your FREE Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a sideswipe accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Barrett Law, PLLCrepresents clients across Mississippi, including Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, Olive Branch, Tupelo, Meridian, Pearl, Madison, Greenville, Oxford, Clinton, Horn Lake, and Brandon. Attorney Jonathan Barrett is dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Call (601) 790-1505 for a FREE consultation, available 24/7/365. Let us help you move forward after a sideswipe accident.

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Truck Transporting 25 Occupants Crashes – 13 Dead in Single Vehicle Crash

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A fatal pickup truck accident in Texas this weekend may be the most deadly single vehicle accident in history.  The pickup truck was transporting 25 people – ten squeezed into the cab of the pickup and 15 in the bed of the truck when it crashed into two trees.  An officer who investigated the F-250 truck crash has been an officer for 38 years and indicated that he had never seen a comparable motor vehicle accident with so many people piled into a single vehicle.  Thirteen of the vehicle occupants died in the collision while the rest of the vehicle occupants suffered injury.  According to media reports, law enforcement officers speculate that the pickup was transporting illegal immigrants, which is why so many people were crammed into the pickup truck.

This terrible tragedy serves as a grim reminder that the many safety features of a motor vehicle are meaningless in a collision if vehicle occupants decline to utilize them.  It is never advisable to pack more vehicle occupants into a car, truck or SUV than can be accommodated by vehicle seatbelts.  Seatbelts are 56 percent effective in preventing fatalities in collisions involving passenger cars.  They are even more effective in preventing fatal injury in vehicle collisions involving other types of vehicles like pickup trucks, vans and SUVs.

Seatbelt use also substantially reduces the risk of serious debilitating injuries by 53 percent.  Seatbelts keep vehicle occupants inside a motor vehicle during a collision where they can take advantage of the protective shell of the vehicle.  In addition to preventing vehicle ejections, seatbelts also reduce the risk of head trauma suffered when one’s head impacts a steering wheel, dashboard or other hard surface inside the vehicle.  Airbags also provide protection from blunt trauma impact and penetration from objects during a collision.

While this safety equipment provides protection from serious injury and wrongful death during a motor vehicle collision, these safety features are meaningless when a vehicle is overloaded beyond the capacity of safety equipment to protect vehicle occupants.  Riding in the back of a pickup truck is particularly dangerous because it is especially easy to be catapulted away from the vehicle and slam against the hard surface of the roadway.  The truck bed also provides no structural protection from the impact of a serious crash.  Although sitting in the bed of a truck can be fun and appealing to kids, you should never allow children to ride in the bed of a pickup even for a short distance or at low speeds on residential streets.

When motor vehicles are overloaded with passengers, the available safety options for vehicle occupants are reduced considerably.  The risk of catastrophic injury and wrongful death is always present when traveling in a motor vehicle, the danger increases exponentially when vehicle occupants overload a vehicle and ignore safety equipment. The experienced Mississippi motor vehicle accident attorneys at Barrett Law have been providing effective legal representation to Mississippi auto accident victims for over 75 years.  We provide careful investigation, thorough analysis of the law and facts and impassioned advocacy so we invite you to call us today at 662-834-2376 to learn how we can help.

 

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Understanding the Unique Dangers Posed by 15-Passenger Vans

While they often transport children to youth activities like church camp or boy scout outings, 15-passenger vans are extremely hazardous vehicles.  These vehicles were never intended to transport large groups of people like a mini-bus but were solely developed to function as a cargo vehicle.  Because 15-passenger vans are not used as intended, they pose a substantial risk of being involved in a rollover collision, especially when fully loaded with passengers.  Rollover accidents are among the most deadly types of vehicle crashes because vehicle occupants are often ejected from the vehicle where they have no protection from injury.

Despite the fact that there are still many 15-passenger vans on Mississippi roadways, the danger they pose to vehicle occupants is well-established.    Many schools no longer permit 15-passenger vans to be used for transporting students, and a growing number of insurance companies refuse to provide coverage for these vehicles.  Although the vans have similarities to other vans, they are longer so there is more seating capacity.  When these vans were extended to add more seating, the vehicle manufacturers never redesigned the vans to make them safe for the purpose of transporting large numbers of vehicle occupants.

Ironically, the very characteristics that 15-passenger vans were intended to provide also play a substantial role in their propensity to rollover.  The vehicles are most dangerous when loaded with more than ten passengers.  The vehicles do not have a wide enough wheel base and are top heavy.  This tendency to be top heavy is magnified when the vehicle is more heavily loaded down with passengers.  Passenger vans share many of the characteristics of SUVs, which are also prone to rollover accidents.  However, 15-passenger vans have an additional feature that makes them prone to rollover crashes.  When the vehicle is full loaded, four passengers sit behind the rear axle.  This means that when the driver of a 15-passenger van must veer sharply to avoid a collision the back of the vehicle is heavy and tends to swing around leaving the vehicle exposed to rollover crashes.

15-passenger vans are hazardous because of this tendency to be top heavy and back heavy.  This danger is more significant because many passenger vans do not have seatbelts installed for all passengers.  A seatbelt is never more urgent than when a vehicle is involved in a rollover accident because there is a high risk of a vehicle ejection.  The importance of seatbelts in 15-passenger vans is reflected by the fact that less than 15 percent of all passenger van fatalities involved occupants that were wearing seatbelts.  If you are injured in an accident involving a 15-passenger van in Mississippi, there are a number of parties that may be responsible including:

  • Other negligent motorists
  • Inexperienced passenger van drivers
  • Manufacturers of these defective vehicles
  • Owners that fail to check for proper tire pressure or old tires

If you or someone you love is injured in a collision involving a 15-passenger van, our experienced 15-passenger van accident attorneys at Barrett Law understand the unique design characteristics that make these vehicles particularly dangerous to occupants.  At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (662) 834-2376 to see how we can help.

 

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Understanding the Danger of Mississippi 15-Passenger Van Rollovers

Most children have been transported in a 15-passenger van to church youth group outings, youth club events, sporting events and other activities.  Parents who send their children on outings in these vehicles often are blissfully unaware of the enormous danger.  A 15-passenger van is particularly vulnerable to rollover accidents.  These vehicles were originally designed to transport cargo.  The design of the vehicles was not appropriately modified to safely transport large numbers of vehicle occupants.  15-passenger vans combine a high center of gravity with unsafe weight distribution when loaded with passengers to make them especially likely to rollover in a motor vehicle collision.

These vehicles are similar to other vans except that they are longer so that more occupants can be transported.  These 15-passenger vans are designed with a high center of gravity and narrow wheelbase.  While most people presume that these vehicles are designed to carry a large number of passengers, the reality is that 15-passenger vans are much more prone to rollover when carrying more vehicle occupants.  The vehicles typically sit 4 passengers behind the rear axle when fully loaded, but this creates more weight behind the rear axle.  This makes the vehicle not only top heavy but also back end heavy so that when a van must swerve to suddenly avoid an obstacle the back end of the vehicle will swing around toward the front of the vehicle.  15-passenger vans are so prone to rollover accidents that 85 percent of the time they rollover in accidents when loaded with 10 or more passengers.

These motor vehicles also may lack seatbelts, which makes rollover accidents especially dangerous.  If a vehicle occupant is involved in a rollover accident without a seatbelt, there is a high risk of suffering serious injury when being slammed against the interior of the vehicle or suffering vehicle ejection.  If you child is traveling in a 15-passenger van, you should warn your child that seatbelt use is absolutely required.   It is important to be aware that less than 15 percent of fatal accidents with one of these vehicles involved occupants wearing seatbelts.

While manufacturing defects may contribute to collisions involving 15-passenger vans, there are other factors that also contribute to the danger associated with these vehicles.  The weight distribution in such a vehicle means that it reacts differently than an ordinary passenger vehicle so only professional drivers should operate 15-passenger vans.  Many times youth organizations permit these vehicles to be driven by coaches, counselors, parents or other inexperienced drivers.  Tire pressure or worn out tires are also dangerous so the tires on a 15-passenger van should be checked prior to a trip.

If you are injured in a 15-passenger van in Mississippi, you may have a right to seek financial compensation against any responsible parties.  This may include the vehicle manufacturer, vehicle owner, inexperienced driver, organization arranging the transportation or other vehicle drivers.  If you or your loved one suffer serious injury or wrongful death, we invite you to call contact us to learn how we can assist you in seeking compensation for your loss and injuries.  The experienced Mississippi 15-passenger van accident attorneys at Barrett Law have been providing tenacious representation to victims of motor vehicle accidents for over 75 years.  We provide diligent legal representation and impassioned advocacy so we invite you to call us today at 662-834-2376 to learn how we can help.

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15-Passenger Vans Pose Danger to Community Groups in Mississippi

There are about 500,000 15-passenger vans that are used on our roads in the United States.  These types of vans are used by shuttle van services, hotels, churches, school groups, and other organizations.  Unfortunately, there has been an increase in rollover accidents in recent years associated with these types of vans resulting in serious injury and even wrongful death.

The Dangers of the Design

These vans are susceptible to rollovers due to their lengthened design and the fact that they are inherently top heavy and unstable. With most 15-passenger vans, the back end was merely extended to provide for more seating room, however, the rear axle of the van remained in the same position. This results in seating for 4 people behind the rear axle of the van.  If the van swerves, then the van has a tendency to swing around in the back because of the extra weight behind the axle.

These vans have a high center of gravity and when fully loaded with passengers they become super top heavy. When the increase in weight in the back seating area is combined with the heavy top weight of the vehicle, it makes the 15-passenger van more likely to tip over. The vehicle also becomes very difficult to control in any sort of emergency situation.

When 10 or more people ride in a 15-passenger van, the risk of a rollover crash increases greatly according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).  Additionally, many 15-passenger van accident victims are injured or killed due to the fact that they do not have their seat belts on when one of these vans rolls over.  It is recommended that organizations that insist on using these vans confirm that enough functioning seat belts are present and urge their passengers to wear a seat belt.

Poor maintenance and driving inexperience can also contribute to Mississippi 15-passenger van accidents.  The high rollover risk makes it imperative that tires not be allowed to become worn or old and that tire pressure be maintained.  Old tires or tires with improper air pressure may lead to a tire blowout which can start a dangerous rollover accident.  These vans also do not handle like an ordinary passenger vehicle because of their extended length and weight distribution so organizations should use an experienced driver to reduce the risk of rollover accidents.

These vans are not that safe for group travel, and there are other vehicles like mini vans and small school buses that are safer to use for the transport of large groups.  If you or a loved one have suffered a serious injury or has been killed in a 15 passenger van accident, contact our personal injury attorneys at the Mississippi law office of Barrett Law PLLC.  Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge of the design defects associated with these vans to effectively represent Mississippi 15 passenger van accident victims. We offer a free case evaluation so call us today at (662) 834-2376 so that we can explain your rights and options.

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