Government Agency Issues Advisory Regarding Rollover Risks In Large Passenger Vans
After reviewing crash data collected in seven different states over a several year period, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a study concluding that 15-passenger vans loaded with ten or more occupants appear to be at an increased risk of rollover when compared to the same vans loaded with less weight. NHTSA further estimates that the vans are six times more likely to rollover when fully loaded compared to carrying fewer than five (5) passengers.
The Agency concluded that the likelihood of a rollover increases in a 15-passenger van as it is loaded with more weight. The vehicles studied were the Chevrolet Express 3500, the GMC Savana G3500 and Rally/Vandura G3500, the Dodge Ram Van/Wagon B3500 and Ram Wagon B350, and the Ford Econoline E-350 and Club Wagon E-530.
Some consumer groups have advocated design changes in these vehicles to safely accommodate occupants. The specific design changes include equipping the vans with laminated safety glass and stronger roofs to protect passengers in rollover events.
For more details on the study, visit www.cpsc.gov.
