Any automobile accident can be a frightening and dangerous situation. However, a rollover accident can often be one where there are devastating injuries or even loss of life. It is important for all drivers to understand what a rollover accident is and how to use caution to prevent this situation.
What is a Rollover Accident?
A rollover accident is an automobile accident where the vehicle rolls on its side or top. In some instances, a vehicle may roll several times before coming to a stop. These accidents can cause significant damages, life-altering injuries, and even death. Visit kennyperezlaw.com for more information about liability in these types of accidents.
Not only can a rollover accident cause irreparable damage to a vehicle, but it can also cause serious and devastating injuries to the occupants of the vehicle. The force of the roll can even throw individuals from the car when not properly wearing a safety belt. Rollover crashes are considered to cause the most fatalities compared to other types of motor vehicle crashes.
Causes of Rollover Accidents
Although most rollover accidents are single-vehicle accidents or caused by the actions of one driver, the act of rolling the vehicle can cause serious consequences for other drivers on the road. For example, if a commercial truck rolls, it can cause damage and injuries to any vehicle or pedestrian nearby.
The main cause of a rollover accident is a driver losing control of their vehicle. This can be due to a variety of reasons, both under the driver’s control and due to conditions outside of their control. It is important to understand the various causes and conditions that could pose a risk of this type of accident. The different types of rollover crashes include:
- Tripping. Tripping is the most common cause of a rollover. This occurs when a moving vehicle is suddenly slowed or stopped. For example, a vehicle driving along at a normal rate of speed hits a curb. This action can bring the tire to a stop, but the vehicle continues to move forward, causing the vehicle to flip.
- Shifting center of gravity. Another common cause of a rollover accident is when the vehicle’s center of gravity shifts during driving. This issue is more common in vehicles with a higher center of gravity, such as trucks, vans, and SUVs. This can occur when any vehicle makes a turn too quickly and the center of gravity shifts rapidly causing the vehicle to tip.
- Strong wind. For larger vehicles, such as commercial trucks, areas that are exposed to strong winds can be dangerous. A sudden gust can easily cause an imbalance in the vehicle and even blow the vehicle over.
- Multi-vehicle crashes. Although multi-vehicle crashes are less likely to result in a rollover, a rollover still can happen. For example, a vehicle that is hit in the side by an oncoming vehicle may roll. A vehicle that hits another or is forced into a guard rail may roll due to the objects acting as a ramp.
How to Prevent Rollover Accidents
One way to prevent a rollover accident is to always ensure the vehicle is in good repair. Tires should have tread and be properly inflated. Brakes should be in good working order. It is also a good idea to keep track of vehicle recalls and other manufacturer warnings for vehicles with a high center of gravity.
The next method for preventing these types of accidents is to drive safely. It is important for all drivers to stay sober when behind the wheel and avoid distractions. Do not drive when sleepy and pay attention to changes in the road and weather conditions. It is also a good idea to maintain safe speeds and to slow when approaching sharp curves or turns.
There are a variety of causes that can make it impossible to prevent all types of rollover accidents. Road and weather conditions, as well as other drivers, are things that a driver has no control over. The best course of action for these issues is to drive cautiously when weather or road conditions are not at their best. Defensive driving courses can also help avoid complications due to other drivers.