A major danger to RVers is the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Someone suffering may pass out or even die behind the wheel. This can put others at risk on the road. Generally speaking, RVs do not have problems as long as their owners keep them well maintained. If individuals recognize the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning early on, accidents or injuries can be prevented.
What should RV drivers do before each trip?
It’s important for the owner of the RV to inspect the chassis and generator exhaust before each outing. If there is a hole or something isn’t working correctly, the RV needs to go in for maintenance until the leak or damage is repaired.
While using appliances if yellow flames exist, it is a sign of a lack of oxygen in the RV. Flames from propane should be blue, white or orange. This in itself may be a sign that carbon monoxide is inside the RV cabin, even though the exhaust should be moving it away from the vehicle.
It is important for people who drive RVs to park them away from snowbanks or buildings that cause exhaust to re-enter the vehicle. They should also never park with an exhaust facing another vehicle’s windows, because this could cause the other vehicle to fill with the poisonous gas.
Most importantly, any time a driver feels unwell, he or she should stop and seek medical attention. It may not be just that he or she is tired, instead he or she could be unwell from carbon monoxide poisoning. If a driver hits someone due to carbon monoxide poisoning, the other party may be able to seek compensation for related injuries.
For further information or to schedule a consultation please contact Merdes Law Office, P.C.at 866.452.3741 or visit www.merdes.com. The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do.
