Accidents are traumatic events that can leave a lasting impression on everyone involved, especially if the accident included a car rollover.
Car rollovers are not incredibly common but tend to cause significant damage whenever they occur. Fortunately, there are ways to educate yourself and prevent these types of incidences.
What is a Rollover Accident?
Rollover accidents happen when a car flips on its side or rolls over to its roof during a collision. Car rollovers are the most dangerous type of accidents due to the high number of vehicle ejections and head injuries that result. These types of accidents only account for about 3 percent of all crashes, yet are responsible for over 35 percent of all motor vehicle occupant deaths.
Common Causes
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to a rollover accident. Here are a few of the most common causes:
Vehicles with a higher center of gravity – While any type of automobile can experience a rollover, those with a higher center of gravity are more at risk. The most common culprits are SUVs, vans, pickup trucks, and commercial trucks.
Overcorrection – It’s not unusual for drivers to overcorrect to avoid an accident or object in the road. The problem with overcorrection is that steering the wheel too sharply can lead to a rollover.
Risky Maneuvers- Reckless driving such as speeding, taking a corner or curve too fast, or driving aggressively all contribute to car rollovers.
Location – These types of accidents most commonly occur in rural areas that lack a divider between directional traffic lanes.
Driving Under the Influence – Nearly half of all rollover accidents involve alcohol or drug impairment. Driving under the influence inhibits speed control, reaction times, and the ability to avoid hazards on the roadway.
Tripped vs. Untripped
There are two different types of rollover accidents- tripped and untripped.
Tripped – Tripped rollovers, which account for 95 percent of rollover accidents, happen when a car leaves the roadway hitting some object that serves as a tripping mechanism. This is usually a curb, median, or guardrail.
Untripped – Untripped rollovers are much less common and generally happen to top-heavy vehicles. They are caused by high-speed collision avoidance maneuvers.
Preventing and Surviving a Rollover
Common sense and safe driving can greatly increase your odds of avoiding a rollover and being able to survive one if it happens. Here are a few tips:
- Always wear safety belts
- Regularly inspect your tires
- Don’t overload your vehicle
- Follow the speed limit
- Beware on country roads
- Always drive sober
- Be aware and avoid distractions
- Share the road
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Rollover Accident
No accident is enjoyable, but rollovers can be particularly scary, especially if you’re in the middle of nowhere on a rural road. Below are some important tips to remember if you ever find yourself in this situation:
- Stay calm
- Assess your injuries
- Check on all passengers
- Exit the vehicle safely
- Call 911 or flag down help
Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You
Car rollovers are traumatic for all involved, but Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help to ease some of your burdens. Our skilled attorneys will help you understand the legal options you have for obtaining compensation and will ensure you receive the money you need to recover.
We have offices in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us to discuss your options today.