The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has advised all operators of 15-passenger vans to follow proper tire maintenance to avoid potentially deadly crashes.

Compared with other passenger vehicles, 15-passenger vans are substantially longer and taller than most light vehicles and may increase the chance of a rollover crash if operators do not conduct routine safety checks and follow proper tire maintenance.

The 15-passenger vans, often used by summer camps, youth groups and religious organisations, have the potential for multiple serious injuries or deaths in crashes making them an area of special concern.

"Approximately 653 people in the US died in crashes between 2004 and 2013 while riding in 15-passenger vans."

Operators should also remember that tires degrade over time, even if the tread is not worn down, and so older spare tires should not be used as replacement tires.

According to NHTSA data, approximately 653 people in the US died in crashes between 2004 and 2013 while riding in 15-passenger vans.

Around 60% of fatalities in these crashes were in vehicles that rolled over and NHTSA claims that it will make sure that these vehicles are equipped with tires of the correct size and load rating to help reduce the chance of a rollover crash.

NHTSA also noted that owners should have suspension and steering components inspected according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule and replace or repair these parts as necessary.