15-Passenger Van Accident in Philadelphia

15-passenger vans are convenient for transporting large groups of people; however, accidents in these types of vehicles can be more dangerous than regular passenger vehicles. A large van has a higher center of gravity which makes it more prone to roll during a crash, and these vehicles often lack the safety features of cars or larger buses, such as seatbelts and airbags.

If you or a loved one were injured while riding a 15-passenger van, you are entitled to pursue compensation. After a serious auto accident, you might incur various medical expenses and you may also need time off work to recover. A Philadelphia 15-passenger van accident lawyer could help you recover these costs and more. Schedule a free consultation with Marrone Law Firm today.

Severity of 15-Passenger Van Accidents

Auto accidents involving 15-passenger vans can be more severe than the average car wreck. Not only are there more passengers involved, vans often do not have airbags or seat belts, making the risk of injury much higher. Large van accidents can be particularly severe for a few reasons:

• High Center of Gravity. Compared to average vehicles, 15-passenger vans have a much higher center of gravity, which makes the vehicle more susceptible to rollovers, especially when making sudden maneuvers or turns. When the van is loaded with passengers and luggage, the center of gravity can shift even further, increasing the rollover risk significantly.
• Increased Stopping Distance. Given their size and weight, a 15-passenger van requires a greater distance to stop compared to smaller cars. This can be dangerous if the driver needs to brake suddenly to avoid an accident.
• Reduced Safety Features. Unlike larger buses or vehicles designed for passenger transport, passenger vans often lack features that improve safety in crashes, which can leave occupants more vulnerable to injuries during collisions in Philadelphia.
• Passenger Ejection. Seatbelt use is not always required in a van, especially when transporting large groups. This increases the chance occupants will be ejected from the van during a crash, which can lead to more serious injuries or fatalities.
• Potential for Inexperienced Drivers. While a commercial driver’s license is not required for 15-passenger vans (unlike school or commercial buses), these vehicles require a different experience compared to a car. Inexperienced drivers who are unfamiliar with the characteristics of a heavy, high-profile vehicle may be at a higher risk of accidents.

Be sure to consult a Philadelphia lawyer to determine your legal rights after getting injured in a van crash.

Recoverable Compensation After a Passenger Van Accident

The recoverable compensation after a passenger van accident can vary depending on the specifics of the case, but some potential categories of damages victims can recover include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes all past and future medical bills related to the accident, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, rehabilitation, medication, and therapy.
• Lost Wages: Those unable to work due to their injuries can recover compensation for lost wages and earning potential. This can include salary, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of income.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensates victims for the physical and emotional pain endured due to the accident.
• Property Damage: If a vehicle was damaged or destroyed in the accident, the owner can seek compensation for repairs or replacement.
• Wrongful Death: If someone died in the van accident, their loved ones may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation.

Some factors that can influence the amount of damages include: the severity of the victim’s injuries, the extent of their medical treatment, lost income, shared liability, and insurance coverage.

Consult a Philadelphia 15-Passenger Van Accident Attorney to Learn Your Next Move

If you were injured due to another driver’s negligence in a multi-passenger van accident, be sure to speak with a Philadelphia attorney from Marrone Law Firm about your case. Our personal injury team could represent you in a legal claim or negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance to reach a fair settlement.

We work with accident victims to determine the cause of the crash and investigate who is legally responsible. Contact our office to discuss your legal rights and remedies if you are considering legal action after a serious van accident.