With the rise of e-commerce, we see more delivery vans on the roads, as companies strive to meet customer expectations for quick and reliable delivery across the country. However, the surge also raised concerns about traffic safety, specifically crashes and injuries where light vans were involved.
Unfortunately, many of these accidents result from the lack of safety features in delivery vehicles, which are usually in the form of light vans.
The issue with older van models
While most modern vehicles come equipped with airbags, some older models may not have them, or even if they do, they may not provide as comprehensive safety coverage. Without airbags with adequate protection coverage, the consequences of a crash may be more severe.
The lack of backup cameras and sensors
Delivery vans often operate in urban areas where pedestrian and cyclist traffic are high. Hence, backup cameras and sensors are must-have safety features to reduce the risk of accidents when reversing. Unfortunately, not all delivery companies equip their vans with these devices for several reasons, such as cost-cutting.
Other key safety features to consider
Other modern safety features that many light vans do not have yet include front crash prevention, lane departure prevention, blind spot detection and intelligent speed assistance.
In a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), it shows that equipping light vans with the necessary and modern safety features can prevent or reduce close to 4 out of 10 fatal crashes involving such vehicles. This just shows how important adequate safety features are in accident prevention.
Injured in a delivery van accident?
Until all light vans are equipped with the necessary safety features, the chances of crashes involving them remain high. And even with safety features, the possibility of accidents is never zero.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries from an accident involving delivery vans or other vehicles, a legal representative knowledgeable in motor vehicle accidents can help you review your situation, make informed decisions and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.