Understanding the Causes of Rollover Accidents: What You Need to Know
Rollover accidents, though relatively rare, are disproportionately deadly. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2021, rollover crashes accounted for about 7,640 fatalities, which was around 21% of all car occupant deaths. This makes rollovers one of the most dangerous types of vehicle crashes. However, there are certain things you can do to help reduce your chance of being involved in a rollover accident. In this article, our North Florida Auto Accident Attorneys explain the common causes of rollover accidents, identify the types of vehicles most prone to rollovers, and share crucial tips to help you avoid these dangerous situations.
If you or a loved one are injured or killed in a rollover accident in Gainesville, The Villages, Ocala, Lake City, Jacksonville, or the surrounding counties, contact Avera & Smith immediately. Our experienced personal injury attorneys have the experience, expertise, and resources to represent victims of serious, life-altering accidents. Call us now at 800-654-4659 for a free consultation.
Common causes of rollover accidents
While rollover accidents can happen under any circumstance, there are several factors that increase your chance of being involved in these types of crashes (and many are often preventable). Below are some of the most common causes:
- Speeding – Speeding is a major contributor to rollover accidents, especially when combined with sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most fatal rollovers occur on high-speed roads, where vehicles are traveling at 55 mph or faster. When a vehicle is moving too fast, any sudden steering adjustment can lead to a loss of control, increasing the chance of a rollover. Data from the NHTSA shows that speeding is a factor in more than 40% of all fatal rollover accidents.
- Sharp turns and overcorrections – Quick, sharp turns—whether on highways or rural roads—are a leading cause of rollovers. Drivers may swerve to avoid an obstacle, but if the maneuver is too abrupt, the vehicle’s momentum can cause it to tip. Similarly, overcorrection, where a driver jerks the steering wheel too far in one direction to regain control, can also lead to a loss of stability and a rollover.
- Tire blowouts or poor tire maintenance – A tire blowout at high speeds can cause a driver to lose control, making the vehicle more prone to flipping over. Poor tire maintenance, including low tire pressure or uneven tire wear, can increase the likelihood of tire failure, which can destabilize the vehicle and lead to a rollover.
- Road conditions – Uneven surfaces, potholes, or soft shoulders on the side of the road can also trigger rollovers, particularly if a vehicle veers off the pavement. When a car’s tires hit a soft shoulder or slide on loose gravel, the imbalance may cause the vehicle to tip.
- Impaired or distracted driving – Drivers who are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or distractions such as texting are more likely to misjudge turns, speed, or road conditions, which can easily result in a rollover. Impaired judgment and slower reaction times make it harder to maintain control of the vehicle, particularly in high-risk situations.
Which vehicles are more prone to rollovers?
Not all vehicles are equally likely to experience rollovers. The design, height, and weight distribution of certain vehicles make them more vulnerable to tipping over, especially during sharp turns or evasive maneuvers. Here are the vehicles most prone to rollovers according to data from the NHTSA.
- SUVs – SUVs are the most common vehicle involved in rollover accidents. Research from the NHTSA shows that SUVs account for 42% of all fatalities in rollover crashes—the highest percentage of any vehicle type.
- Pickup trucks – Pickup trucks are the second most common vehicle involved in rollover accidents. Similar to SUVs, pickup trucks have a higher center of gravity compared to sedans, which make them more prone to tipping over. As a result, 38% of all fatalities in rollover accidents involve pickup trucks.
- Vans – Passenger and cargo vans are also at increased risk for rollovers. Their large size, high center of gravity, and tendency to carry heavy loads make them susceptible to tipping over, particularly when they are fully loaded with passengers or cargo. Sudden steering or high-speed turns can easily destabilize a van.
- Commercial vehicles (semi-trucks and buses) – Large commercial vehicles, such as delivery trucks, semi-trailers, and buses, are at higher risk for rollovers. Their size, weight, and design make them particularly vulnerable on tight turns, in high winds, or on uneven surfaces. Poor load distribution in cargo vehicles further exacerbates the risk.
- Vehicles with roof cargo – Any vehicle carrying a load on the roof—whether it’s a compact car, SUV, or van—faces a higher rollover risk. Roof-mounted cargo raises the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it more unstable in sharp turns or high-speed situations.
Safety tips to prevent rollover accidents
While some factors contributing to rollover accidents are beyond a driver’s control, such as road conditions or the actions of another driver, many are preventable with cautious driving and proper vehicle care. Here are some critical safety tips to help reduce the risk of rollover accidents.
- Obey speed limits – Always drive the speed limit. Reduce speed on curves, in bad weather, or when driving on unfamiliar roads. High speeds significantly increase the chance of a rollover, especially in top-heavy vehicles.
- Avoid sudden maneuvers – Sudden swerving or overcorrecting the steering wheel can destabilize your vehicle, leading to a rollover. It’s better to brake slowly and maintain control rather than make sharp, jerky movements.
- Maintain your tires – Regular tire maintenance is crucial. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, aligned, and have enough tread. Underinflated or worn tires are more prone to blowouts, which can result in a loss of control and a potential rollover.
- Never overload your vehicle – Check your vehicle’s load capacity, and ensure that cargo is evenly distributed. Avoid placing heavy objects on the roof, as this raises the vehicle’s center of gravity.
- Always wear a seatbelt – Data from the NHTSA shows that 63% of all rollover fatalities occurred due to the occupants being ejected from the vehicle. Seatbelts save lives.
- Stay focused and avoid distractions – Keep your attention on the road at all times. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in any activity that takes your focus off driving. Distracted driving can lead to poor decisions or delayed reactions, both of which increase the risk of a rollover.
- Be cautious in bad weather – Florida is notorious for bad thunderstorms. When it rains, roads can become slippery, increasing your chance of hydroplaning and losing control. Slow down in bad weather and increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead to give yourself more time to react.
Injured or lost a loved one in a rollover accident in North Florida?
Call Avera & Smith now at 800-654-4659 for a free consultation
Rollover accidents can lead to devastating injuries and tragic fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a rollover accident, you deserve experienced legal support. At Avera & Smith, our skilled attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to helping you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Whether you’re dealing with life-altering injuries or the wrongful death of a family member, we are here to provide the compassionate, aggressive legal representation you need. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice you deserve.
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