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Passenger Van Safety

Passenger vans handle very differently from smaller passenger vehicles because they are typically longer, higher, and wider. They require additional reliance on the side mirrors for changing lanes, more space, additional braking distances, and have a higher risk of crashes and rollovers if not properly driven and maintained. These vans are often used by various groups and organizations.

Passenger Van Safety

What’s the Concern - Higher Rate of Rollover

NHTSA research shows there’s a greater risk of rollover due to:

  • Inexperienced drivers
  • Improperly sized and/or inflated tires
  • Incorrectly loaded cargo and passengers that affect center of gravity
Safety Tips


Federal regulations require that any van (with a capacity of more than 10) sold or leased for use as a school bus to meet the safety standards applicable to school buses.
Don't Use as School Bus Federal regulations require that any van (with a capacity of more than 10) sold or leased for use as a school bus to meet the safety standards applicable to school buses.


Always inspect the tires and check tire pressure before each trip. Check the placard on the driver’s side B-pillar or the owner’s manual lists manufacturer recommended tire size and pressure.
Check Your Tires Always inspect the tires and check tire pressure before each trip. Check the placard on the driver’s side B-pillar or the owner’s manual lists manufacturer recommended tire size and pressure.


The top 5 things you should know about buckling up.
Buckle up The top 5 things you should know about buckling up.


Drivers should never exceed the posted speed limit. Most rollovers occur at high speeds as a result of sudden steering maneuvers.
Slow Down Drivers should never exceed the posted speed limit. Most rollovers occur at high speeds as a result of sudden steering maneuvers.

Never allow more people to ride than designed.
Don't Overload Never allow more people to ride than designed.

Buy a Safer Van.
Buy a Safer Van Buy a Safer Van.
 
Reminder To All Drivers.
D Driver should be well trained and experienced.
R Rest well. Fatigue can affect driving and response time.
I Inspect the vehicle before every trip, especially the tires.
V Vehicle weight should never exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
E Ensure all passengers are buckled up and side mirrors adjusted.
R Replace old tires. Check the vehicle owner’s manual for correct size.
S Safety is First.
 
 
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Latest News
NHTSA Offers Tips for Safe Travel in 15-Passenger Vans.
 
Commercial Vans
Federal requirements and safety information
 
Program Highlights
Fatalities Statistics
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Safety Toolkit
Van Safety Brochure
Van Safety Fact Sheet
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Did you know?
57 percent of 15-passenger vans have, at least, one significantly under-inflated tire.