Rollover accidents can be very hazardous for drivers and passengers alike. They can lead to severe injuries, even in vehicles with modern safety technology.
But what causes these accidents? Is there anything that drivers can do to avoid rolling over? Here are some of the most common culprits:
Speeding
First of all, speed is closely correlated with rollover accidents. For instance, a young driver may go into a corner at far too high of a rate of speed. They have no time to slow down, so they try to take the turn as quickly as they can, and they roll the car off of the road.
Tripping
It is called “tripping” when a vehicle hits something that causes it to lose its balance. An example would be when someone is driving and strikes a rock that they didn’t see. Even at a low speed, when the center of balance moves, it can cause a vehicle to roll. Tripping is when one tire strikes an object and the others don’t, throwing off the vehicle’s balance.
Lift kits
Speaking of the center of gravity, putting a lift kit on a vehicle raises that balance point. This is why SUVs are especially prone to rollover accidents. In fact, many of them – such as Jeep Wranglers – have specific warnings to avoid rollovers.
Fast maneuvers
Finally, as noted above, doing things quickly can cause a rollover accident. Maneuvering quickly, such as weaving between traffic lanes, could cause a vehicle to go out of control and roll. This is especially dangerous in highway traffic because the vehicle could be struck by another car.
Have you been injured in an accident caused by another driver, perhaps as a passenger in their vehicle? If so, you need to know how to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other costs. Experienced legal guidance can make the process much clearer and easier to manage.