Recreational vehicles, or RVs, allow families to enjoy summer holidays without the expense of hotels. There are, however, several safety issues with these vehicles: while overloading causes a significant number of accidents and personal injury annually, in recent years, defective tires have contributed to a peak in rollovers and tire blowouts in California and across the country.
The tire that has been the focus of the recalls is the Goodyear 159, or G159, which is actually a heavy truck tire. Manufacturers, such as Fleetwood and Monaco, used this tire in an exclusive agreement with Goodyear. They were assured that this tire was suitable for a large Class A type vehicle. Unfortunately, this tire could not sustain the heavy loads placed on it and the shifting weights of a large RV.
According to testimony presented in a private deposition in San Diego, the Goodyear claims administrator admitted that the company knew that the G159 tire did not “perform properly.” The Goodyear attorneys were so shocked at this deposition testimony that they terminated all discussion, negotiated a settlement with the plaintiff, and destroyed all existence of the deposition.
Despite strong evidence that the G159 is defective and several recalls, the tire is still in use on many trucks and used RVs today in California and other states, according to an attorney. If you purchase or rent an RV this summer, be sure to have a good mechanic check out the rig before you drive away. It may just save you and your family from suffering serious personal injury in an accident. Be sure to check for all tire recalls at http://www.safecar.gov.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, FMCSA, has a safety campaign for RVs and cars called, “Share the Road Safely.” Motor vehicle accidents increase during the summer months when there are more cars and trucks sharing the road. Whether you rent or own an RV, the FMCSA has the following safety tips for you:
-Don’t Overload Your RV
Unequal weight distribution and overloading can restrict braking and steering, as well as increase fuel consumption and cause sudden tire blowout. Keep your center of gravity low, as it will provide for better handling.
-Check Your Tires
Driving at safe speeds, maintaining correct tire pressure, inspecting tread depth, and checking for tears are all essential for ensuring that tires are safe.
- Watch Your Blind Spots
Although not as large as blind spots on trucks, RVs have them and you should take precautions accordingly. Using your mirrors and signals properly will help prevent serious accidents.
-Wear Your Seat Belt
Although every state in America has a law that the two front passengers of any class motor home must wear a seatbelt, each state has various exemptions concerning the passengers. However, every passenger—whether in a car, truck, or motor home—should wear a seat belt at all times. In case of a sudden stop or accident, you suffer the risk of ejection if not secured in the vehicle. This link will provide the seatbelt laws for RVs in all 50 states: http://www.rvhelpdesk.com/seatbelt-laws.html
Recreational vehicles can be a safe and fun way to travel. However, always be aware of safe operating procedures, maintenance, and any tire or manufacturing recalls to ensure a safe holiday.
