A fifteen-seat passenger van has many helpful uses from carrying multiple passengers to holding large loads. Church, college, and work groups drive them to various activities, and even some daycares take advantage of the multiple seats to carry children to field trips. Although they are very useful, it takes a skilled driver to handle them. Learning how is easy and is simply becoming aware of the situations that are the most dangerous when operating one. A passenger van is not just a large car and cannot be driven as such. Unlike a typical car, as more passengers load into the vehicle, the center of gravity moves toward the back. It is important to recognize the situations in which rollovers and crashes are most likely: * When driving over 50-mph or on curved roads * When vans go off-road onto softer ground or an embankment * When the driver overcorrects the steering wheel when off-road or reacting to an emergency, such as a vehicle moving into the van's lane * When a driver is tired * When the driver is moving too fast for road conditions, such as in rain or iced-over roads. Passengers must also have their seat belts fastened at all times, which you as the driver should be certain of before driving off. Most of these situations can be avoided as long as the driver is aware of them. Of course, when transporting people for long trips, driving over 50-mph or avoiding curved roads are impossible. When met with this situation, all it takes is being aware of how the van handles. Inspect the vehicle before driving off, making the usual checks where controls are located, if the brakes and steering work well, and where the tire pressure gauges. Passengers should load from front to back, and no cargo should be strapped to the top of the van as this increases your chances of a rollover. Fatigue when driving any vehicle cannot be tolerated. Therefore, be certain you have gotten enough rest before driving. Distractions should be kept at a minimum as you drive as well. While driving on any road, space between you and the vehicle in front of you should be larger than when in a normal vehicle. This way, there is more room to brake to a stop, as vans take longer to brake all the way. Of course, using your mirrors and turn indicators are important when merging into another lane. Moving too quickly could also cause the van to lose control. Sometimes, a passenger van may move off-road onto softer ground. When in this situation, do not panic, gradually slow down, and slowly move back onto the road. Rural roads are often the reason for this situation and for curved roads. While driving on a curved road, try to spread your turn as wide as possible. Cutting turns will cause loss of control. Again, most of these situations can be avoided as long as the driver is aware of them. A passenger van is a safe and viable option for any outing. Getting a passenger van can save you time and money. Syracuse, NY residents can learn more here: http://www.romanosprinter.com.
Related Articles -
passenger, van, syracuse, ny,
|