Any collision between two vehicles has the potential for serious injuries or death – but rollover accidents are among the most deadly.
A rollover is any crash where at least one of the vehicles involved tips over onto its side or roof. Aside from the sheer dynamics of being thrown around the inside the vehicle as it rolls, the victims of these wrecks also run a much higher risk of being thrown out of the vehicle – and that increases the chances of death. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), rollovers caused the deaths of 7,640 passenger vehicle occupants in 2021 alone.
Why are some vehicles uniquely vulnerable to rollovers?
Sport utility vehicles, vans, delivery trucks, Jeeps and semis are all more vulnerable to rollover accidents than the typical passenger vehicle – and that’s largely because of their height. A high center of gravity makes taller, larger vehicles more prone to tipping in the first place.
Road conditions, too, can be a factor. High winds on elevated areas of the road where there’s no windbreak can make it harder for a truck or SUV to stay balanced – especially if the roads are also wet. Even the landscape can affect the risk of a rollover since vehicles are more likely to tip over when they have to climb hills and go around sharp turns.
Finally, driver behavior is a big factor in rollover accidents. Drivers who are distracted, frustrated or fatigued may fail to slow down when they’re approaching bends in the road. High speeds and sudden maneuvers can compromise a vehicle’s balance.
If you were injured in a rollover crash due to another driver’s mistakes, you may be in for a long recovery. Legal guidance can help you get the compensation you need and deserve.