Safety in Action

Family's research on van's safety pays off during accident.

It’s always nice to know when paying extra for something really pays off, especially when it comes to the safety of your family.

Carl Puckett, of Dayton, Ohio, found this out firsthand earlier this year while driving the family’s accessible van that was purchased for his son, Conner.

Another vehicle broadsided Puckett’s VMI Honda with Northstar conversion while he drove home alone from work in March. The van rolled three times and ended up on the passenger’s side.

Despite rolling over three times, Carl only suffered minor cuts and bruises. However, when he returned to the wreck it was the condition of the wheelchair and space normally occupied by his son that amazed him the most.

“I couldn’t believe what I saw,” he says. “Conner’s wheelchair was still locked in where he would have been sitting during the accident.”

His friend also pointed out that the wheelchair wasn’t only locked in, but hadn’t moved. Even though the floor was slightly buckled, the in-floor ramp system did not appear to have moved, nor was it detached or projected out the other side of the van. The front driver and passenger seats, which are removable, also remained locked in place.

“The van’s ramp and safety system worked as promised,” notes Carl. “Not only that, but all airbags deployed as they should.  While I’m grateful none of my family was in the car with me, I feel they would’ve still been safe. The VMI Northstar truly lived up to the safety standards that everyone should meet.”

When Carl and his wife, Angie, bought the van a few years ago, they spent a long time doing research on safety. Despite some more economical options on the market, the Honda with Northstar conversion became the clear choice for the Pucketts. Among their concerns was placement of the ramp inside the van. 

“We wondered if we were involved in an accident, where the fold-out ramp might go; or if it could hit someone inside the cabin if the vehicle was hit,” says Carl.

It’s safe to say the Pucketts got their money’s worth out of their van purchase.

To see a video of Carl or for more information, visit vantagemobility.com.

 

Note: PN and PVA do not endorse or recommend specific products or services. This description is for information only.

 

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