Receiving Compensation for RV Accidents and Injuries

Every year, millions of families travel to vacation destinations in recreational vehicles, both owned and rented. While this is generally a safe and comfortable means of travel, RVs come with their own unique risks, sometimes leading to accidents and injuries.

Common Causes of RV Accidents

Inexperienced drivers: For most new owners, their RV is much larger than the car they are used to driving. Even for motor homes that are 45 feet long and up, no special training or licensing is required for operation, so the person behind the wheel may not be used to the increased braking required for a large vehicle or the difficulty in maneuvering in traffic. Visibility may also be limited, especially if a car is being towed behind the RV. RV renters may have even less experience.

Other motorists: As with large trucks, other drivers may not be aware of a large vehicle’s blind spots, reduced maneuverability, or increased braking time. Oftentimes, other drivers follow too closely, change lanes quickly in front of an RV, or follow beside the RV in areas not visible in that vehicle’s mirrors. All of these behaviors can lead to accidents.

Mechanical Failure: RVs are subject to the same mechanical failures as other vehicles. This includes brake, tire, and other potential mechanical failures.

Other causes: Improper loading or overloading can cause RVs to be unstable and can cause tire failure. Propane tanks, if not properly maintained and secured, can cause serious injuries.

Take the Proper Precautions

New owners and renters should always take plenty of time to familiarize themselves with their vehicle before taking it on the road. Ideally, a new owner or renter should drive the vehicle in a safe area for several hours to learn its balance, turning radius, stopping distance, and the locations of controls, such as lights, turn signals, and mirror adjustments.

Plan your route before you get on the road, to avoid distractions.

Check the interior of the RV to make sure all items are safely stowed away. Check propane tanks to make sure they are properly secured and turned off while traveling.

New York RV Accident Attorneys

If you are injured in an RV accident as a passenger, pedestrian, or driver of the vehicle involved in a crash with an RV, talk to an experienced RV accident attorney. The attorneys at O’Brien and Ford focus their attention on representing accident victims. You can arrange a free consultation by calling us at 716-907-7777. Learn more about our firm and our practice here.

COVID-19 UPDATE: Although we are working from alternate locations, we remain fully functional and look forward to helping you.