Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, recreational vehicle rentals have skyrocketed. Between travel restrictions between states and the temporary closure of many restaurants and attractions, RV travel became appealing to many. Families may see RV travel as a fun (and COVID-safe) way to see the country. Unfortunately, this means a higher risk of RV accidents. RV’s present unique safety concerns that can increase the risk of accidents, or worsen their severity. If you have been injured in an RV accident, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as you can. Some evidence must be collected soon after the accident occurs or it may be lost forever.
Most RV Drivers Do Not Have a Special License or Training
Only a handful of states require a special license or additional training to drive an RV. Wisconsin is not one of them. Unlike people who drive buses, semi trucks, or other large vehicles, many RV drivers have never been trained on how to operate a vehicle of that size safely. In fact, it is possible to rent an RV without ever having driven anything larger than a sedan. This contributes to the risk of RV accidents as inexperienced RV drivers may underestimate stopping distance, fail to properly check their blind spots, underestimate the impact of high winds, or misjudge a turn. They may also not know how to correctly balance their load to reduce the risk of rollover accidents.
Drowsy or Distracted RV Driving is Common and Dangerous
With many families turning to RV travel as a way to vacation during the pandemic, it is no surprise that distracted or drowsy driving is a real concern. Most adults are tired by the end of a family vacation, and having multiple passengers moving around freely in the back of the vehicle can be distracting. This can cause RV drivers to let their guard down and stop using the special care needed when operating a large vehicle, resulting in an accident. This, combined with the number of inexperienced RV drivers on the roads right now, makes RV-involved accidents more likely now than in previous years.
RV Accidents Are More Likely to Result in Serious Injury
Due to the sheer size and weight of an RV, accidents that involve both an RV and an average car, truck, or SUV can result in serious injuries, particularly for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. Passengers in the RV may also be at high risk, as they are frequently not wearing safety belts and could be thrown by the force of a collision. Common injuries stemming from RV accidents include spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and other forms of head trauma.
RV accident victims may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income, harm to their earning capacity, property damage, and other damages. An injury attorney experienced in car accident injury claims can help accident victims assert their rights and pursue monetary damages.
Contact an Appleton Recreational Vehicles Accident Lawyer
If you were hurt in an RV accident, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Evidence like photographs of the accident scene, tire marks, and traffic camera footage must be collected promptly. Witnesses must be interviewed before their memories begin to fade. The more time that passes after an accident, the more difficult it can be to collect evidence. The attorneys at Herrling Clark Law Firm Ltd. have experience pursuing claims related to RV accidents and can help you recover compensation for your injuries. Contact an Appleton Recreational Vehicles Accident Lawyer today at 920-739-7366 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/rv-rental-buy-how-to-drive-repair-camp-park-coronavirus-11594132322
rvandplaya.com/rv-accidents-statistics-facts-to-know/
https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/com-drv-vehs/cdl-how-aply/cdloverview.aspx