You’re driving down the road on a clear day, when suddenly another vehicle swerves into your lane, forcing you off the road. Before you can react, your car flips, tumbling violently before coming to a stop. The world feels turned upside down—both literally and figuratively.
After a rollover crash, whether you’re dealing with severe injuries or, worse, the loss of a loved one, you deserve to receive compensation that reflects the harm you’ve endured. At Joye Law Firm, we understand what you’re going through and are committed to helping you recover the maximum compensation possible. Since 1968, our attorneys have helped tens of thousands of South Carolinians recover from the aftermath of traumatic car crashes. We’re here to help you, too. Reach out to us today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.
What Are Rollover Accidents?
A rollover accident occurs when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof. These crashes can result from sharp turns, hitting a curb, or colliding with another vehicle or object. In some cases, a rollover can occur when a vehicle veers off the road and overcorrects.
Rollover accidents can be incredibly dangerous due to the forces involved and the risk of serious injury or death. While they are not as common as other types of car crashes, the severity of injuries from these types of crashes make them a significant concern for drivers.
The damage from rollover crashes is compounded when a vehicle’s safety features are defective or fail.
Common Types of Vehicles Involved
SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans are particularly prone to rollovers due to their higher center of gravity. When these vehicles are involved in sudden steering maneuvers or high-speed collisions, they are more likely to flip compared to sedans or other cars.
Additionally, large commercial trucks, like box trucks and tractor-trailers, can roll over when negotiating a turn, overcorrecting, or during windy conditions. Sometimes, a tractor-trailer’s load may shift or fall during transit, leading to a rollover crash. If the truck rolls on top of an adjacent car, it can crush the occupants inside.
Statistics on Frequency and Fatality Rates
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rollover accidents represent around 35% of all vehicle-related fatalities. Although rollover accidents make up a smaller portion of total crashes, they account for a disproportionate number of deaths and serious injuries. The risk of death in a rollover crash is significantly higher if the person is ejected from the vehicle, which is why wearing a seatbelt is so important.
Common Causes and Risk Factors That Increase Rollover Probability
Rollover accidents don’t usually happen in isolation—they often involve a combination of factors that lead to the vehicle losing control. These factors, which may not be immediately obvious, can make a significant difference in the vehicle’s stability and the driver’s ability to regain control.
Vehicle Design and Stability Issues
One significant contributor is the vehicle’s design, particularly in taller vehicles like SUVs, vans and trucks. Their higher center of gravity makes them less stable than lower-profile cars, making them more prone to tipping over when taking sharp turns or encountering sudden obstacles.
Unsafe Driving and Experience
Inexperienced drivers or those who make reckless decisions on the road, like speeding, may not be able to handle their vehicle properly in dangerous conditions. Sudden swerves or high speeds can destabilize the vehicle, especially on curves or when avoiding other obstacles.
Road Conditions
Narrow or winding roads, uneven surfaces, potholes, construction zones, or roads with unexpected curves can play a significant role in these accidents. When drivers aren’t prepared for the road conditions, it becomes easier for them to lose control of the vehicle.
Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions—such as rain, snow, or ice—can decrease road traction and make rollovers more likely. Fog and reduced visibility can also contribute to drivers making sudden maneuvers that result in loss of control.
Tire Defects and Maintenance Problems
Tires that are not properly maintained or are defective can lead to a rollover crash. Worn-out tires, improper tire pressure, or manufacturing defects can cause tire blowouts that may force a driver to lose control.
Driver Impairment or Distraction
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even fatigue significantly increases the chances of an accident. Drivers who are distracted—whether by texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other activities—are more likely to make mistakes that can lead to rollovers.
Vehicle Loading and Cargo Distribution
Improperly loaded vehicles can become unstable, especially when cargo is unevenly distributed. Overloading a vehicle with heavy items or poorly securing cargo can lead to a dangerous shift in the vehicle’s balance.
