What Causes Rollover Collisions?

Posted in Distracted Driving, Motor Vehicle Accidents on November 4, 2022

Rollover accidents are perhaps one of the most terrifying types of incidents that occur on the roadway. These incidents can lead to catastrophic injuries for those inside the vehicle. These types of incidents can involve a single vehicle or multiple vehicles. It is imperative to understand how rollover accidents are most likely to occur in order to avoid them. 

High Speeds

Operating at speeds too fast for conditions or above the speed limit is much more likely to increase the chances of a rollover. Speeding will increase rollover chances in single-vehicle collisions or incidents involving two or more vehicles. Anytime one or more vehicles are moving at a high rate of speed and impact one another, this is going to lead to various types of devastation. High-speed vehicle collisions could lead to a vehicle tipping over on its side or completely rolling over, trapping the occupants, or even ejecting them out of the vehicle.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is an increasing problem in Washington and throughout the US. This is particularly true as the popularity of smartphones and other devices has increased. Anytime a driver is distracted behind the wheel, they are much less likely to see approaching hazards. Additionally, distracted drivers are more likely to veer off of the roadway than others.

Aggressive Driving

Various types of aggressive driving behaviors could lead to a rollover collision, including tailgating, making improper lane changes, racing, and weaving in and out of traffic.

Impaired Driving

Drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs are more likely to be involved in rollover collisions. Drunk or impaired drivers lack the judgment and skills to operate a vehicle safely and are more likely to make mistakes that endanger their lives and the safety of others.

Improperly Loaded Cargo

If a vehicle is carrying any type of cargo, it must be loaded properly. Improperly loaded cargo can change the weight distribution of the vehicle, making it more likely that the vehicle will roll over. Large commercial trucks are much more likely to roll over if the cargo is not properly loaded inside of the trailer portion. If you have been involved in a commercial truck accident, contact our truck accident lawyers in Seattle today.

Equipment Failure

Various types of vehicle equipment can fail and cause a rollover collision. This can include poorly designed vehicles, tire blowouts, broken wheels or axles, etc. Equipment failure increases the chance that a driver will lose control of the vehicle, which could lead to the driver swerving off the road and into a rollover situation.

Roadway Conditions

Poor roadway conditions will also increase the chance of a rollover collision. This can include hazards such as poor weather, debris on the roadway, potholes, roadway construction, and more period

High Center of Gravity

Some vehicles have a higher center of gravity than others, including SUVs and pickup trucks. Over the years, safety standards have reduced the rollover risk these vehicles pose, but you will still see many of these vehicles come with rollover warnings, typically attached to the driver’s visor. These vehicles are taller and have a higher center of gravity, which make it more likely that they will roll over when they turn quickly or are impacted by other vehicles.