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Vehicle Rollovers

Vehicle rollovers are among the most terrifying types of car accidents. Typically involving taller vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, rollovers occur when a driver loses control, resulting in the vehicle tipping onto its side or roof.

What is a Vehicle Rollover?

A rollover occurs when a vehicle tips over onto its side or roof, usually following a sharp turn or collision. Rollovers are more common with vehicles with higher centers of gravity, like SUVs and trucks. These accidents can be particularly dangerous and often result in serious injuries or fatalities.

Causes of Vehicle Rollovers

Many things can cause an accident where the vehicle rolls over, including:

  • High speeds: Traveling too fast, especially around curves or turns, increases the likelihood of rollovers.
  • Sudden swerving: Quick, sharp steering to avoid obstacles or other vehicles can destabilize a car.
  • High center of gravity: Vehicles like SUVs and trucks are more prone to rollovers due to their design.
  • Tire blowouts: A sudden tire failure can cause the driver to lose control, leading to a rollover.

Consequences of Vehicle Rollovers

Accidents resulting in vehicle rollovers can lead to:

  • Severe injuries: Rollover accidents often result in serious injuries, such as head trauma, broken bones, or spinal injuries. These can sometimes be fatal, especially if occupants are not wearing seatbelts.
  • Vehicle total loss: Rollovers frequently cause significant damage to vehicles, often resulting in a total loss.
  • Long-term medical issues: Survivors may face long recovery periods, rehabilitation, or permanent disabilities.
  • Legal consequences: If negligence is a factor, there can be legal liabilities, leading to lawsuits and financial compensation claims.

Avoiding Vehicle Rollovers

To reduce the risk of getting into an accident where your vehicle rolls over:

  • Avoid speeding: Follow speed limits, especially on curves and ramps, where rollovers are more likely to occur.
  • Drive cautiously in large vehicles: If you’re driving a vehicle with a high center of gravity (like an SUV or truck), make turns slowly and avoid sudden swerving.
  • Maintain your tires: Ensure your tires are in good condition and properly inflated, as blowouts can contribute to rollovers.
  • Don’t overload your vehicle: Carrying too much weight can raise the center of gravity and increase the risk of rollovers.

What to Do After a Vehicle Rollover Accident

Experiencing a vehicle rollover can be a traumatic and disorienting event. Whether you’re driving an SUV, truck, or any other vehicle, knowing the right steps to take immediately after a rollover can significantly impact your safety and the effectiveness of any subsequent legal or insurance processes.

  • Ensure Your Safety and Assess Injuries: Quickly evaluate yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately. Do not move injured individuals without an immediate danger (like fire).
  • Move to a Safe Location: If it’s safe, carefully exit the vehicle, especially if it’s causing a traffic hazard.
  • Call Emergency Services: Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance.
  • Avoid Further Damage or Injury: Turn off your vehicle’s engine to prevent additional risks like fires, if safe to do so.
  • Exchange Information: If other vehicles are involved, exchange names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and vehicle information.
  • Document the Accident Scene: Take photos of the vehicle’s position, damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and relevant surroundings. Note the accident’s exact time, date, and location.
  • Look for Witnesses: Gather names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident.
  • File a Police Report: This provides an official accident account and is essential for insurance claims.
  • Notify Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible, tell your insurance provider. Submit the police report, photos, and other relevant information to support your claim.
  • Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent even if you feel fine. A medical evaluation ensures that any hidden injuries are treated promptly.

Next Steps

The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but legal help is just a call away. Consult with an experienced car accident attorney at Meinhart & Manning for free. Complete our online form or call (877) 776-1219 today to start your claim with confidence.

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