Rollover crashes are dangerous accidents that have a greater fatality rate than other kinds of accidents. They are rare, but deadly events, claiming one-third of passenger vehicle deaths while accounting for only 3 percent of all crashes.
Tripped and un-tripped rollover accidents are the two different types of these kinds of crashes. Contact with external forces, such as curbs or collisions with other vehicles can lead to tripped rollovers. In fact, the most common scenario for a tripped rollover happens when a vehicle’s tires strike the curb as it slides sideways, digging into soft ground on the shoulder of the road causing a sudden increase in lateral force.
Untripped rollovers happen when a vehicle is destabilized by cornering forces. As a vehicle turns a corner, three forces act on it: tire forces, inertia, and gravity. The forces from the tires act below the vehicle’s center of mass, pushing it toward the center of the curve. Inertia acts horizontally away from the center of the turn. When these two forces overcome the force of gravity, the vehicle begins to roll over.
Preventing Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents often occur when drivers become suddenly alarmed and over-compensate their steering. This can occur as a result of a tire leaving the road surface or an emergency situation. This over-correction of steering can cause a driver to lose control, tipping the vehicle at highway speeds. Instead of quickly jerking the steering wheel, if your vehicle leaves the road, slow down gradually and then ease your car back onto the road.
The majority of rollover crashes- nearly 75%- happen on rural roads, particularly those which are undivided or have no barriers. It is easy for a vehicle to be tipped by soft soil on the road shoulder or strike a ditch or embankment, thus turning over.
Several factors about your vehicle can facilitate a rollover. However, there are two in particular that are easy for motorists to take charge of- maintaining tires and minding vehicle loads. Tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can limit your ability to maintain control of your vehicle.
Additionally, carrying an excessive or unbalanced load can also be detrimental to your ability to navigate turns safely. Be especially mindful of any load placed on the roof, as this will raise your vehicle’s center of gravity and increase your risk of a rollover.
Rollover Accident Statistics
· Account for 33% of all passenger vehicle fatalities
· Wearing your seatbelt during a rollover crash increases your chances of survival by 75%
· More than 10,000 people die every year in rollover crashes
· Taller, more narrow vehicles are more susceptible to rollovers
· Adhering to the posted speed limit and not driving impaired are good ways to avoid rollover accidents
Contact Our Pueblo Car Accident Lawyers
Rollover accidents can occur in any car accident or collision. In addition, improperly maintained roads, defective tires, and even reckless drivers around you can cause them. When your accident is caused by another person’s negligence, you have a right to seek compensation for your injuries and for all damages. Call Pueblo attorneys at Smith & Smith, today for a FREE CONSULTATION – (719) 544-0062.
