The Dangers of Rollover Accidents

 Posted on May 11, 2018 in Car Accidents

A recent rollover accident has once again showcased the inevitability of tragic rollovers. The driver, a 22 year old Aurora man, was charged with driving under the influence after his vehicle rolled off the road. Fortunately, the driver is in stable condition and no additional vehicles were involved in the accident. Still, in the last month alone, the greater Chicago area has witnessed a number of deadly and severe rollover accidents. 

Unsurprisingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that rollover accidents are the second most deadly form of vehicular accident, behind only head-on collisions. Because of the violent roll of the vehicle, passengers are likely to suffer severe head and neck injuries. Moreover, those not wearing seat belt restraint systems commonly suffer fatal injuries. If you or a loved one are involved in a motor vehicle accident and suffer injuries due to another driver's negligence, contact an experienced and knowledgeable Waukegan personal injury attorney to discuss your case.

Causes for Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents can occur for a number of reasons, but commonly occur due to a process known a vehicular tripping. Vehicular tripping occurs when a tire abruptly comes into contact with an object such as a curb or bump in the road, leading to the vehicle’s roll. Other common causes of rollover accidents are defective or flat tires and driving at excessive speeds around dangerous corners. Of course, some vehicles are more prone to rollovers than others.

Vehicle models such as SUVs and minivans are much more likely to suffer rollover accidents due to their generally higher center of gravity. According to the NHTSA, roughly 35 percent of all fatal SUV crashes are rollovers, whereas rollovers only constitute 15 percent of general vehicular fatalities.

General Rollover Statistics

While rollovers are known as the second most volatile form of vehicular crash for most vehicle models, they are the most dangerous risk for SUVs, minivans, and commercial and recreational trucks. Today, rollovers continue to be common throughout the United States. The NHTSA states that upwards of 280,000 rollover accidents occur each year. In all, an average of 10,000 Americans lose their lives each year in rollover accidents.

Speak with a Skilled Lake County Car Accident Lawyer

Even when driving responsibly, rollover accidents can still occur. The likelihood of rollovers increases in dangerous road conditions, as well as when aggressive drivers are present.

If you are involved in a rollover accident, knowing where to turn next can be an incredibly difficult and disheartening process. At Salvi & Maher, L.L.C., our dedicated staff has decades of experience helping victims of motor vehicle accidents. For more information, contact our compassionate team of Waukegan personal injury attorneys at 847-662-3303 today.

Sources:

https://www.justia.com/injury/car-accidents/car-accidents/rollover-accidents/

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/crime/ct-abn-aurora-blotter-st-0508-story.html

https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/accidents-hazardous-conditions/28002-rollover-accidents-explained.htm