Crash ratings are based on weight class. A smaller van like that is in a different weight class than an F350, so even if it had a perfect crash test rating it wouldn't have mattered much. The heavier vehicle is the one that usually wins, especially if it's significantly heavier (like in this case). This is why I won't ever use anything smaller than a large car as my daily driver, and usually I stick to larger SUVs. You can call me a gas guzzler or whatever you want, but when it comes to my safety and my families safety I frankly don't care what you call me.


With that said, the best way, in my opinion, to avoid serious accidents is to take classes in defensive/performance driving. The experience you gain in difficult driving situations can help you keep your cool in a driving emergency and possibly avoid an accident. I think every teen should go to one of these courses. Drivers ed only teaches you how to drive in normal to good conditions, it doesn't teach you what to do when things go wrong.