RV Accident
Additional Information
Did You Get into an RV Collision?
Many people from around the country take road trips with the ultimate destination of Arizona. Why wouldn’t they? Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, the state has so many wonderful sites to visit. There are natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, the Petrified Forest, and manmade sights like the Hoover Dam and Lake Powel. And don’t forget other points of interest, like picturesque Sedona and historic Tombstone. Arizona is a great place to visit, even if you live there.
Instead of staying at hotels, many vacationers who visit the Grand Canyon State opt to go camping so they can be closer to nature. Others choose to rent motorhomes or recreational vehicles (RVs). While renting an RV may seem like a good way to travel, they come with some safety issues.
Motorhome Safety Issues
Motorhomes, particularly Class A and B RVs, are much larger than the average passenger vehicle, yet they require no special license or training to operate. This raises certain safety concerns, because many drivers have little or no experience driving such a large vehicle. Routine maneuvers, like backing up or navigating turns, are much more difficult with a large RV than with a regular car. Additionally, like commercial trucks, motorhomes have blind spots that novice operators may not be familiar with. Many new RV drivers may also not realize that a larger, heavier vehicle requires more time and distance to come to a complete stop. Motorhomes also have a higher center of gravity, making them more susceptible to rollover accidents.
Passengers in a motorhome can also be in danger. Because RVs contain a living area, many passengers do not remain buckled into their seats. They walk around, use the restroom, cook, sleep without restraints, and perform other activities that make them vulnerable to injury during a crash or sudden maneuver. There may also be a tendency to leave objects unsecured while driving. Seemingly harmless items, like soda cans, coffee cups, silverware, etc., can become dangerous projectiles during an accident.
Insurance Issues
Because RVs are larger and heavier than cars, they can cause a great deal more damage in a wreck. If the driver’s insurance policy only has minimal coverage, it may not cover all the damages resulting from an accident. Drivers can purchase additional insurance from the rental company or their own insurance company, but they are not required to do so.
Who Are the Liable Parties?
Depending on the circumstances surrounding an RV crash, a number of parties may be held liable for damages, including:
The driver.
The rental company, for not maintaining the vehicle or providing warnings of the dangers of motorhomes. The rental company may also be held liable under the legal concept of “negligent entrustment,” which means that they are guilty of allowing an incompetent person to rent and operate a motorhome.
The manufacturer of the motorhome, if a design or manufacturing flaw contributed to the accident.
The manufacturer of a faulty part of the vehicle, such as the brakes or tires.
With so many parties being potentially involved in an RV accident claim, such lawsuits can be complicated affairs. To get the compensation you deserve, you’ll need the skilled representation of The Husband & Wife Law Team. Call for a free consultation with a Phoenix car accident attorney. The Husband & Wife Law Team represents our clients at no upfront cost. We only get paid if we win your case.