A rollover accident may not be the most common, but it could be one of the deadliest mishaps on the road, as occupants can be ejected, and the vehicle often exits the roadway. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 29 percent of all passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2022 were attributed to rollovers. Examining how such incidents occur and how to avoid them is important.
As the name implies, a rollover is defined as a vehicle that turns on its side or roof at any point in an accident. Of the more than 7,400 people killed in rollover accidents in 2022, it is worth noting that the number of deaths in a single-vehicle rollover (49 percent) was significantly higher than that of multiple-vehicle crashes (13 percent).
Among the contributing factors and most common reasons for a rollover are:
The type of vehicle. Pickup trucks, SUVs, and minivans have a higher turnover rate due to their center of gravity and top-heavy design. While rollover crashes accounted for 37 percent of occupant deaths in SUVs and 39 percent of occupant deaths in pickups, they only accounted for 21 percent of occupant deaths in cars, the IIHS reports.
The pre-crash speed. Those who attempt to take sharp turns at high speeds or swerve to avoid objects have a high instance of rollover. Essentially, the driver loses control and gravity takes over.
The use of seat belts. The National Library of Medicine reports a low risk of fatality reported at less than 1 percent for those wearing a seat belt. This is in comparison to the estimated 75 percent of occupants who are killed in rollovers and not wearing seat belts, according to the National Centers for Statistics and Analysis (NCSA).
The use of drugs and alcohol. According to the NCSA, nearly half of the 9,525 passenger vehicle drivers involved in fatal rollover crashes were under the influence. Slower reaction times and compromised judgment rank among the reasons for such occurrences.
Who Is Liable for a Rollover Accident?
Liability for a rollover accident can depend on several factors, including the cause of the accident and the parties involved. In many cases, the driver of the vehicle may be held liable if they were speeding, driving recklessly, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, other parties, such as the vehicle manufacturer, may also share liability if a defect in the car’s design or components contributed to the rollover. In cases where poorly maintained roads caused the accident, the government entity responsible for road maintenance may also be liable. Determining liability often requires a thorough investigation of the accident’s circumstances.
The New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyer at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Is Just a Call Away
Although uncommon, rollover accidents can profoundly impact the quality of life if you are involved in one. Talk to the New Brunswick car accident lawyer at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. to determine if you are entitled to compensation following such a traumatic event. Call 732-247-3600 for a free consultation or fill out our online form. With offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.
