We all naturally cringe when we pass a serious accident on the road involving a rollover. These accidents are one of the most dangerous and deadly types. Unfortunately, as a car accident lawyer knows all too well, these accidents are far more common than you think for reasons you might not even be aware of. As a person on the road yourself, it is important to understand what leads up to these accidents so that you can avoid them. Here’s what you should know about them from our friends at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC:
What Is The Actual Definition Of A Roll Over?
Of course, we know that a roll over accident is an accident that causes a vehicle to flip or roll. However, if a vehicle tips to its roof or only its side, it’s still legally a roll-over accident. It does not need to roll multiple times. Only one vehicle may be involved although a multi-vehicle accident can also result in one or more vehicles rolling over.
Causes Of Roll Overs
A vehicle can be involved in a roll-over because of a variety of contributing factors. Somme include:
- A truck or delivery vehicle with an uneven or improperly secured load
- A driver of a vehicle falling asleep behind the wheel
- A distracted driver
- Speeding, especially on curvy roads
- DUI or DWI
- Hitting a curb, pothole, or driving partially on an uneven surface
And many more reasons. At the end of the day, it is normally a distracted driver of some sort running into another vehicle on the road.
Which Vehicles Face The Most Risk?
If you drive or are a passenger in a vehicle that is, generally speaking, taller and narrower than most vehicles, you’re facing a relatively high risk for a roll-over. The vehicles most likely to be involved include:
- Semi-trucks
- Large SUVs
- Passenger trucks, such as a Dodge Ram or Ford F-250
- Both passenger and commercial vans
There are some vehicles that are specifically well-known because they roll over so easily. Be sure to research your vehicle for this possibility before purchasing so that you are aware of the risks.
Injuries And Fatalities
Around one-third of all roll-over accidents result in a fatality according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The stats go further and inform us that light trucks have a 47% risk of death while passenger vehicles have a risk of death around 22% from roll-over.
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injury
- Head injury
- Organ injury
- Internal bleeding
- Crushing injuries
Keep Yourself Safer!
Any vehicle can result in a rollover. Because of this, it’s crucial to follow safer driving practices such as:
- Always obey the speed limit; if weather or road conditions are an issue, drive slower and safer
- Pay attention to the road at all times
- If you drive a commercial vehicle, ensure that it is properly loaded
- Follow the directions for sharp curves when they are posted, such as slowing down significantly before and during the turn
Stay as safe as possible on the road! If you are involved in an accident, contact a lawyer near you for help immediately.