Preventing and Surviving Rollover Accidents

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Car Accidents

Rollover accidents can happen in any vehicle, in any weather, and under any circumstances. However, they are more common in certain situations and in specific vehicles. You can improve your chances of surviving such accidents by understanding these situations, and knowing which vehicles may be problematic. The following information explains further.

How Serious Is the Problem?

It is estimated that only about three percent of all serious crashes involve the rollover of a vehicle. However, these accidents account for about 30 percent of all traffic accident fatalities. Those at the greatest risk are those who are unbelted since rollovers can result in one being tossed throughout the cabin or ejected from the vehicle. Yet even belted drivers can suffer fatality.

Understanding Why Rollovers Happen

Rollovers are most likely to happen in vehicles that are considered “top-heavy.” These are vehicles with a higher center of gravity, like SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks. Tire grip is sometimes a factor, particularly when tire tread is low. Avoid this by ensuring you keep a careful eye on tire tread.

Overloaded vehicles, particularly on SUVs and pickup trucks, can also be problematic. This is especially true if the load is on the roof of the vehicle. Make sure that you check your vehicle’s load recommendations and always try to keep the heaviest part of your load close to the floor and as far away from the tailgate as possible (closest to the center of the vehicle).

Speed, soft ground, and overcompensation are common causes as well. Watch your speed, avoid over-maneuvering, and be careful on country roads where the ground may be less firm. You should also be careful of curbs and potholes, which are some of the biggest contributors to tip-over accidents in prone vehicles. Above all, make sure you always wear your safety belt.

Pursuing Compensation after an Accident

Even if you take every precaution possible to prevent a rollover, they can and may happen. Should one happen to you or someone that you love, you have the right to pursue compensation. Unfortunately, accident victims are not always treated fairly by insurance companies or the justice system. As such, victims are encouraged to seek experienced legal assistance for their accident injury cases.

If you have been injured in a car accident, contact a skilled Orland Park injury attorney. At Issa Law, LLC,  we will fight to get you the fair settlement that you deserve. Seasoned and dedicated to your best interests, we will protect your rights, every step of the way. Call 708-966-2408 for your free consultation today.

Source:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/02/rollover-101/index.htm