These Types of Vehicles Could Increase the Risk of a Rollover Accident

What is a Rollover Accident?

A rollover can be described as a vehicle falling onto its side or roof in a crash. While driving defensively is always the best way to prevent a rollover accident, some vehicles are more likely to be involved in a rollover crash— and the fatality rate is higher than other types of crashes. Here’s what you need to know:

Vehicles With High Rollover Rates

Vehicles designed to be taller and narrower than an average car are more likely to be involved in a rollover accident because they have a higher center of gravity and are more top-heavy. For example, when a vehicle rounds a curve, the center of gravity then shifts to one side, which can throw off a vehicle’s balance. The following types of vehicles are at higher risk.

Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs)

SUVs are taller and have more space between the bottom of the vehicle’s body in relation to the ground (ground clearance), causing instability when rounding a turn.

Pickup Trucks

A pickup truck may be involved in a rollover accident if it is carrying an excessive load. Truck overload can throw off the balance of the vehicle.

Vans

Cargo and passenger vans have a large and “boxy” body. Whether used to transport goods or people, they are on this list of vehicles with high rollover rates.

Just like a pickup truck, when a van is weighed down with goods, the vehicle could lose control and crash when off balance. Passenger vans that are overloaded with people can also be a rollover risk. According to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the odds of a rollover accident involving a 15-passenger van at its maximum seating capacity is five times more likely to be involved in a rollover crash than when the driver is the only occupant in the van.

Semi-Trucks

Semi-trucks are heavy and large, and when going at high speeds, a vehicle with such immense size and top-heavy can quickly lose control and rollover.

Injured in a Rollover Accident? Contact us Today for Help.

Rollover accidents are one of the most deadly types of crashes — and for those who survive, often life-long medical needs and financial burdens.

If you or a loved one has suffered life-threatening injuries in a rollover accident, you have the right to seek compensation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys know all the tactics that insurance companies use to low-ball settlements — but we’ll fight back to ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve.