Most car accidents involve complicated interactions between vehicles, drivers, weather, and the road. Regardless of the type of accident that occurs, they are typically traumatic events that can leave lasting effects. This is especially the case when a rollover accident occurs.
If one or more vehicles happen to roll over when an accident occurs, it may cause serious injuries or death.
If you are involved in a rollover accident caused by another person or entity, let our legal team help. At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, we have the expertise and ability to help you with your legal claim.
It can also be beneficial to know some of the most common causes of rollover accidents, which are highlighted here.
What Causes Rollover Accidents?
There are two main reasons a vehicle may roll over during an accident. One is because a driver loses control of the vehicle, and this results in them drifting off the road. Another cause is drivers that engage in risky or high-speed driving.
Even though there are other potential causes for a rollover accident, such as a collision with another vehicle or obstructions in the road, the above reasons are common and can result in you needing help from a car accident lawyer.
Some of the most common causes of rollover accidents can be found here.
Driver Control
The most common reason rollover accidents occur is that drivers lose control of their vehicles. They may fall asleep behind the wheel, use their phone, or engage in other things that cause distraction. All of these can result in the driver losing focus and control of their vehicle. If a driver strikes a curb or some other obstruction in the road, it can alter the vehicle’s center of gravity, and the forward momentum can cause the vehicle to roll.
Risky Maneuvers
Another potential cause of a rollover accident is aggressive driving, which includes all types of risky maneuvers like swerving while speeding or taking turns suddenly without slowing down. A fast maneuver can cause friction between the surface of the road and tires, which can cause the vehicle to tip onto its side and flip over. This is particularly dangerous for trucks, vans, and vehicles carrying heavy loads.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Usually, rollovers are single-vehicle accidents. Cases of multi-vehicle rollovers are not as common. While this is true, if a vehicle is hit on the side and pushed over by the force of an oncoming vehicle, it could roll. In some situations, vehicles will hit guardrails or some other objects, creating a ramp, which causes a rollover.
Tips for Preventing Rollover Car Accidents
If you get in a vehicle, there is always a risk of being involved in an accident. While it’s impossible to control every situation, there are steps you can take to help prevent an accident and injury. If you want to have your best shot of avoiding a rollover accident or any type of accident for that matter, be sure to use these tips:
Never Drink and Drive
You should never drink and drive. Doing so puts you and everyone else on the road at risk. It isn’t worth it. Even small amounts of alcohol may impair your vision, coordination, and judgment. If you turn too quickly while sober, it can create a problem; however, if you do this while intoxicated, it is much more dangerous.
Know Your Vehicle
Every vehicle, no matter the size, has the potential to roll over if the right conditions are present. While this is true, it’s much more likely for pickup trucks, vans, or SUVs to roll over than traditional sedans. The high center of gravity and weight of these bigger vehicles means they will become unstable and that if sideways momentum starts, it’s hard to stop. If you drive a vehicle that has a higher center of gravity, it’s important to be aware of the tipping possibility.
Avoid Speeding
Speeding plays a role in about 40% of all fatal rollover accidents in the U.S. Also, most rollover accidents occur in areas where the speed limit is 55 MPH or more. This is a simple lesson – don’t speed. The posted speed doesn’t mean it’s the safest speed. Evaluate the conditions and consider how to adjust your speed to keep yourself and others safe.
Hire Our Law Firm for Help with Your Rollover Accident
If you have been involved in a rollover accident caused by someone else, contact our legal team at Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers. We can review the facts of your case and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Our legal team has worked on countless cases like yours and is ready to help you recover from the injuries and damages you suffered. The first step is to get in touch and schedule a free consultation.