Since COVID-19 began in 2020, many individuals are seeking alternative forms of entertainment and travel. A popular way to travel and a spend time with the family was with a recreational vehicle (RV).
COVID-19 also brought new work-from-home policies from many businesses which allowed individuals to consider working remotely from an RV. RV rentals and purchases saw a huge increase with rentals services noting their bookings increases to to 50 percent.
RV accidents are not uncommon because recreational vehicles are prone to issues such as extended breaking distance, lack of maneuverability and blind spots. RV’s do not have to go through rollover and crash tests. And, even the ones that do receive crash tests are performed on the frames that the RVs are built, but RVs.
Safety in crashes depends on factors such as the type of collision, RV class and where passengers are located. In a minor fender bender, the large Class A motor homes may be the safest when passengers are seated. However, for all-around safety, Class B camper vans are the best choice.
Most RVs are not designed to take significant impact from either the side, front or rear. Add-ons like tables, TVs, tables and other items that are loosely-anchored can hit passengers and cause harm during an accident. If passengers are standing or walking during that can also cause serious injury.
Most recreational manufacturers belong to the RV Industry Association (RVIA) who performs inspections of production facilities to ensure they are meeting all requirements and are up-to-code.
The most common causes of RV accidents include:
- Speeding
- Inexperienced drivers
- Overtired drivers
- High winds
- Overloading with too much weight
- Runaway trailers
- Rollover due to RV’s having a higher center of gravity
- Miscalculated turns
- Poor stopping distances (RV’s require longer stopping distances)
- Poorly balanced loads
- Failing to see another vehicles due to a blind spot
If you or a loved one has be injured in an RV accident, please contact the experienced accident legal team at Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. in Greenville after you’ve received medical attention. Our attorneys are available 24/7, and there are no costs or attorney fees until we receive a monetary recovery for you. Contact our office today, 252-378-2525.