There are few motor vehicle accident scenarios more terrifying than a rollover accident, and few as deadly. Each year in the U.S., rollovers lead to the wrongful death of about 10,000. This number accounts for nearly 1/3 of all car accident fatalities in the United States. A rollover accident happens when a car, truck, or other vehicle is turned onto its side or roof.
Rollovers can be categorized as either “tripped” or “untripped”. A tripped rollover is caused by external forces, such as when a vehicle strikes a curb or another vehicle. An untripped rollover is caused by forces having to do with the vehicle itself, such as speeding, road friction, or steering mistakes. Some common causes of rollover accidents that can result in a claim include:
- Brake malfunctions
- Defective tire treads
- Failed tires
- Load shifts in trucks
- Negligent drivers
- Overloaded vehicles
- Poor road maintenance
- Poor weather conditions
- Unexpected road hazards
- vehicle defects
Rollover accidents are a risk on Illinois and Missouri roads, especially in top-heavy vehicles such as 15-passenger vans and SUVs. Large commercial trucks have the highest risk of rollover. Rollover accidents are responsible for many deaths and injuries each year. Even when every occupant of the vehicle is wearing their safety belt, there are particular dangers that lead to several injuries in this type of accident. Some reasons for severe injury and death in rollover accidents include: roof collapse, tire failure, door lock failure, fires, and explosions. Flying debris, occupant ejection, and other dangers contribute to the severity of injuries in rollovers. Also, in some vehicles, such as many SUVs, the roof may not have been constructed to meet the roof safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Because of the nature and severity of a rollover accident, injuries can be severe, if not fatal. For victims who are fortunate enough to survive a rollover, the damage can be life-threatening and permanent. Some common injuries in a rollover accident include: brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, whiplash, back trauma, bone fractures, lacerations, concussions, burns, rib and torso damage, and internal trauma. Often, the injuries sustained in a rollover accident require extensive treatment, which may include diagnostic tests, surgeries, and ongoing therapies. For many victims of rollover accidents, the medical expenses can be overwhelming. If your rollover accident was caused by someone else’s negligence or by a defective auto part, you could be eligible for compensation for your medical expenses, pain, and suffering.