SUV Rollover Accidents Explained
 photo courtesy of Volvo Because of a higher center of gravity, SUVs are more prone to rollover accidents than typical sedans. |
In 2003, 35.7 percent of fatal SUV crashes resulted in a rollover. That same year just 15.8 of fatal passenger car accidents resulted in a rollover. What this statistic points out is the fact that SUVs are much more likely to rollover in a serious accidents. Compounding the issue is the fact that SUVs often carry heavy loads with make them even more top-heavy and thus are more likely to be involved in rollover accidents.
Causes of Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents are directly related to a vehicle’s stability in turns. That stability is influenced by the relationship between the center of gravity and the track width (distance between the left and right wheels). A high center of gravity and narrow track can make a vehicle unstable in fast turns or sharp changes of direction–increasing the odds that it will tip over once it begins to skid sideways. The problem is most pronounced in 4-wheel-drive pickup trucks and sport-utility vehicles, which have a higher ground clearance for off-road driving.
 photo courtesy of Volvo Many SUVs have roll-stability control systems that work to prevent rollover accidents. |
Most fatal 4WD rollovers are single-vehicle accidents that occur on weekend nights. The drivers are most frequently males under 25, and alcohol is usually involved. In three out of four fatal rollovers, the victims were ejected from the vehicle, indicating they weren’t wearing a seatbelt.
Rollover Accident Risk Rating System
Neither cars nor trucks are subject to a federal rollover standard, though pressure for such a requirement has been building. To help predict which vehicles might have a greater likelihood to overturn in single-vehicle accidents, NHTSA introduced a rollover rating system in 2001. Reported on a five-star system, the rollover ratings are based on an engineering analysis of each vehicle’s center of gravity and the width between the front tires. The results are compared with police accident reports for confirmation. In its rating system, five stars equals a rollover risk of less than 10 percent, while one star indicates a greater than 40 percent rollover risk.
Call a Rollover Lawyer to Discuss Your Rollover Lawsuit Legal Options
If you or a loved one have been severely injured or killed in a rollover accident involving an SUV, truck or van, you and your family may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and your pain and suffering. The Willis Law Firm has the expertise you need to get the money and justice that you deserve. To discuss your case with our law firm and to learn more about how we may be able to fight for you, please Contact a Rollover Lawyer or call The Willis Law Firm today at 1-877-788-7655. You are not alone.
