Florida – Rollover Accidents Explained
March 7, 2016
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are roughly 200,000 rollover accidents in the United States each year. These dangerous Florida auto accidents lead to deaths at a disproportionately high rate. While just 2.1 percent of passenger vehicle crashes involve rollovers, rollover accidents are responsible for roughly 35 percent of all accident fatalities. To get the help you need, call Jodat Law Group today, your Florida Auto Accident Lawyers.
Leading Causes of Florida Rollover Auto Accidents
As with most types of collisions, driver error is a common factor in many rollover accidents as well. For example, the NHTSA notes that speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence all increase the risk of being involved in a rollover accident.
However, there are several non-driver related risk factors that contribute to rollover accidents as well. These include:
High Center of Gravity
- – While any type of vehicle can roll over, taller vehicles such as SUVs are particularly susceptible to rolling in a collision. In fact, nearly
twice as many fatal SUV accidents involve rollovers
- as compared to fatal accidents involving other passenger vehicles.
On-Road and Off-Road Hazards – Potholes, debris, and other roadway hazards can serve as “tripping” mechanisms that cause cars, trucks, and SUVs to roll over. Steep shoulder drop-offs and soft ground on the side of the road are often factors in rollover accidents as well.
Tire Failure – Tire failures can cause emergency situations where drivers suddenly lose control. This dangerous scenario frequently leads to rollovers.
If one or more of these causes contributed to your rollover accident, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation.
Tips to Avoid Rollover Accidents
The NHTSA provides a number of recommendations to help you try to counteract the risks presented by these factors. However, as the NHTSA notes, in many situations it is still “unlikely” that an average driver would be able to regain control to prevent a rollover.
Some tips to help prevent rollover accidents include:
Don’t Panic
- – If you find yourself in an emergency situation on the road, don’t panic. Try to stay calm and safely maneuver your vehicle out of harm’s way.
Know What to Do if You Lose Control – If your vehicle leaves the roadway, the NHTSA advises reducing your speed gradually before easing back onto the roadway.
Check Your Tires – Worn, overinflated, and under-inflated tires can all contribute to rollover accidents, especially in wet conditions.
Don’t Overload Your Vehicle – Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for weight limits and load distribution. Also, keep in mind that placing heavy cargo in a roof rack will further raise your vehicle’s center of gravity.
Use Caution on Roads without Barriers – Road barriers and guardrails are often placed to help prevent rollover accidents. On unprotected roads, the NHTSA advises exercising caution to account for the heightened risk of rollover accidents.
Have You Been Injured in a Rollover Accident? Contact Jodat Law Group, your Florida Auto Accident Lawyers.
The Florida auto accident lawyers at Jodat Law Group provide experienced legal representation for victims of rollover accidents in the greater Tampa area. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a rollover accident, we invite you to contact us today for a complimentary consultation.