According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 10,000 people die each year in rollover crashes. Although rollovers happen less than other types of accidents, such as rear-end and side-impact collisions, rollovers have a higher fatality rate than any other type of wreck.
How Do Rollovers Occur?
When a car tips onto its side or roof, it is considered a rollover. Unfortunately, rollovers are very serious accidents that typically involve SUVs, vans, pickups, and buses. This is because taller vehicles with a narrow wheelbase compared to the height of the vehicle are more likely to roll over than cars closer to the ground; however, there are other factors that can also play a part in rollovers, such as:
- Drivers. When drivers speed or make erratic maneuvers by steering one way and then overcorrecting, they may compromise the vehicle’s balance and cause it to roll. Also, drivers who are distracted at the wheel, drowsy, or impaired may have a tendency to make a rapid change in direction and cause their vehicles to tip over.
- Car manufacturers. Because there are many vehicles that are made with sensitive steering and are top-heavy, they have a higher chance of tipping over and rolling when the vehicle’s center of gravity shifts around a curve in the road. Sometimes, vehicle manufacturers are to blame for defects in design or failing to make a car as stable and safe as they possibly could. When manufacturers make vehicles that are inherently unsafe, they may be accountable under product liability laws.
- Tire manufacturers. Many collisions have been caused due to tire defects and tire failures. Unfortunately, defective tires can cause a driver to lose control of a vehicle, resulting in a rollover. Shockingly, many different tire companies have poorly designed tires or tires made from substandard materials which have led to tread separation and tire blowouts. Consequently, faulty tires have caused many rollovers and serious injuries and fatalities.
Holding Those Responsible Accountable
Auto manufacturers or tire companies with poor manufacturing standards need to be held liable for rollover accidents and the losses that occur as a result of their unsafe products. If you were injured or your loved one was killed in a rollover due to an unsafe vehicle or defective tires, you can hold the responsible party accountable. Learn more about your rights by contacting an experienced attorney today at703-721-4233. Our law firm welcomes your call, and we would be honored to provide you with a free consultation.