For many outfitters, this is likely old news. For others it may be the first time you’re hearing about this. Whether you’ve heard about this or not likely depends on which insurance carrier you’ve been using for your auto policy the last several years!
Start by closing your eyes and envisioning the classic “kidnapper” van. What does it look like? Yeah, that’s the one, with “CANDY” written on it in red paint – it’s the white 12-15 passenger van, like a Ford Econoline or a Chevrolet Express. Those are the types of vans we’re talking about in this article. If you have one of those vans in your fleet, keep reading.
These vans that are 2007 or older have a high rollover risk when fully loaded. Like, a very high rollover risk: they are three times more likely to roll over in a crash when loaded with more than 10 passengers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has put out several cautionary warnings about it, and it’s been picked up by various media over the years as well. Thankfully, newer designed vehicles addressed this rollover risk and they are less of a concern.
So, what should you do about it? Again – many of you are already aware of this, and removed some of the seats years ago due to insurance carrier requirements. But, for those who are just catching up, that’s what you should consider doing whether your auto insurance carrier requires it or not:
If your current insurance carrier hasn’t yet required this of you, know that this is something you might see coming from them in the future. Most of the auto insurance carriers out there are requiring the seat removal these days, and your current carrier may just be catching up.
About the Author
Ruthie Rivers is an Adventure & Entertainment Risk Consultant on the Granite Insurance team, who leads the agency’s nationwide river outfitter program. In her previous professional life, Ruthie herself was an operator in the outdoor adventure industry, which gives her understanding and insight into running an operation and into employing risk mitigation strategies. Her mission is to empower outfitters through approachable industry-specific insurance education and guidance.
Ruthie can be reached by email at
