A rollover accident isn’t always avoidable, but there are some things you can do to stay safer if you’re hit by a truck or another car.
How can you avoid a rollover accident?
Rollovers only occur in around 3 percent of crashes, making them relatively uncommon. Despite this, they account for about 30 percent of fatalities in passenger vehicle accidents. These incidents don’t need to be so serious, though. There are safety precautions you can take to avoid rollover crashes and to keep yourself secure if one occurs.
Which kinds of vehicles roll over most easily?
The most common vehicles to roll over include tall, thin vehicles. They are unbalanced and have a high center of gravity. Since these vehicles are top heavy, they can tip over more easily if unbalanced. The vehicle could roll over if it hits a curb, for instance, or it might roll if high winds push the weight of the vehicle over too far.
Tire grip also plays a role in rollover accidents. If a tire has too much grip, it can build up the forces working on the vehicle and force it over. If it has too little, it can’t stay grounded. Sliding is better than tipping, but if a vehicle hits a curb or other item during a slide, it still has the potential to roll.
How can you avoid injuries in a rollover accident?
Always wear a seat belt. Many people who do not are thrown from their vehicles or suffer injuries that could have been avoided if they were held tightly to their seats. Traveling at a lower speed and avoiding travel in high winds also helps.
As a victim, you have the right to seek out compensation after you’re injured in a rollover crash. You may be able to obtain compensation for lost wages, medical bills and other financial needs.
Source: Consumer Reports, “Car rollover 101 How rollovers happen and what you can do to avoid one,” accessed Feb. 06, 2017