The Main Causes of Rollover Car Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Last updated on February 12th, 2024 at 10:36 pm

Rollover car accidents are dangerous since they often result in severe injuries or fatalities. In some instances, these types of accidents occur when drivers do not abide by traffic laws or pay attention to road or weather conditions. In other cases, rollover car accidents can occur because of the actions of other drivers.

Practicing defensive driving and staying updated on vehicle safety features can contribute to a safer driving experience and reduce the risk of rollover accidents. However, if you were involved in such an accident, especially due to someone else’s negligence, you should consult a Hialeah injury law firm.

A personal injury lawyer specializing in rollover car accidents may be able to help you establish liability for your unfortunate event and guide you through your legal options in the hopes of pursuing compensation. Here are some of the main causes of rollover car accidents and how to avoid them.

High-Speed Turns and Maneuvers

Speeding is among the most common reasons rollover car accidents occur. When a vehicle makes a turn or maneuvers at high speeds, it is much more susceptible to rollover. Sometimes, abrupt steering or even overcorrecting can lead to a rollover incident.

To avoid a car rolling over, drivers should follow traffic speed limits and slow down, especially when approaching turns or curves. Adjusting the speed of your vehicle to meet the specific road conditions you encounter is critical to avoid damaging your vehicle or rolling over your car.

Striking an Object

All types of motor vehicles are susceptible to skidding, but when your car strikes an object, such as a curb, pothole, uneven surface, or is hit by a larger vehicle, it might lead to a rollover. Speed, again, plays a massive role in this scenario, as well as road and weather conditions or the type of vehicle you are driving and its weight.

Because of this, drivers should always pay attention to the road and look ahead for any potential hazards while also maintaining a safe distance from curbs, medians, or other objects. These days distracted driving is among the leading causes of car accidents, so it’s crucial to emphasize that your ability to notice and react to obstacles in time can be hindered by your smartphone or other devices. Always pay attention to the road conditions and other drivers.

Vehicle Design and Stability

All vehicles, due to their design, have varying degrees of stability, so some are more prone to rollover accidents than others. It all comes down to their center of gravity. A vehicle with a low center of gravity and good stability is less prone to rollovers.

However, this may not be enough. Maintaining your vehicle regularly can also play a huge role in its rollover susceptibility. Service your vehicle on a regular basis and check the tire pressure and suspension. If you want to lower your car or make other modifications to your vehicle, do so within the legal limits and only work with professionals.

Loss of Control in Emergency Situations

In many instances, rollover car accidents are caused by a loss of control during emergency situations or panic. To decrease the chances of being involved in a rollover accident, drivers should practice defensive driving techniques and be ready to react to unexpected situations.

For example, in some situations, sudden braking or swerving might be your first reaction in an emergency. However, this could cause a rollover. In most cases, maintaining a safe following distance can help you make smart decisions since you will have a longer reaction time.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, including certain medications, can increase the risk of rollover accidents, as the impairment can affect a driver’s abilities, such as their reaction time, concentration, and awareness.

An impaired driver could operate their vehicle recklessly, causing a rollover car accident to occur. If another party’s negligence caused your car accident, you should take legal action, as your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage may not be enough to cover your lost wages, property damage, and other losses.

Speak with a car accident lawyer to explore your legal options and find out if you have the legal grounds to pursue a car accident claim against another party. Drivers should always avoid operating their vehicles if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Use alternative transportation options if you are impaired, or ask a sober driver to take over if necessary. If you use medication, always be aware of the potential side effects and their impact on driving.

Overloading or Improper Loading

A car’s center of gravity plays a huge role in rollovers. If a vehicle is overloaded or has unevenly distributed weight, that will affect its stability and increase the likelihood of a rollover. Drivers can prevent such issues by distributing their cargo evenly and properly securing it.

All vehicles have manufacturer guidelines regarding weight limits and proper loading. If you cannot find yours, look them up online to make an informed and safe decision before you load your vehicle. If you transport heavy items on your roof rack, be extra cautious. 

Tire Blowouts or Malfunction

Sometimes, vehicle malfunctions such as tire blowouts or other tire-related issues can cause a driver to lose control of their car and result in a rollover. Because of this, drivers should regularly inspect their tires and change them if they are too worn.

Always check your tires inflation level and tread depth. If your tires are worn out or damaged, you should replace them as soon as possible. Should you encounter a tire issue while on the road, switch to your spare tire if you have one and drive at safe speeds.

Do not engage in sudden maneuvers with your damaged tire and address the issue as soon as possible. Rollover car accidents can easily lead to severe injuries and extensive property damage. If you have been involved in such an accident, contact a car accident lawyer for a consultation. You may have legal grounds to seek compensation from the at-fault party.