Rollover accidents are some of the most dangerous types of car accidents that happen in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), such accidents are more dangerous than other car crashes.
Although rollover accidents account for only 2.1% of motor vehicle crashes, over 35% of all casualties result in death.
It is essential to know who is at fault in rollover accidents, as this will determine who is responsible for compensating the victim(s). Texas is a modified comparative fault state, which means that if the driver is partially liable for the car crash, their compensation may be reduced. Schuerger Shunnarah can also advise on who's at fault in jackknife accidents.
Determining Fault in a Rollover Accident
The at-fault parties in rollover accidents can be the driver who caused the incident, the manufacturer of the vehicle, or even a private road maintenance company.
Negligent drivers can cause rollover accidents by:
Suddenly changing lanes
Harsh swerving
Distracted driving
Driving under the influence (DUI)
In some cases, manufacturing defects can also cause a rollover car accident. Private road maintenance companies may also be liable if bad road conditions contributed to the rollover crash.
To file a successful personal injury claim for a rollover accident, the victim injured in the incident must be able to prove that the at-fault party breached their duty of care and caused the crash. This can be done by gathering evidence such as:
Witness statements
Police reports
Medical records
In this case, a car accident attorney can help the victim with the process and negotiate with the insurance company and the negligent driver to ensure they receive fair compensation.
What Causes Rollover Crashes?
Rollover accidents occur more frequently than people realize. When a person is injured in such a crash, they may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim or a rollover accident claim.
This reimbursement can help cover soaring medical bills that often come with serious injuries. It can also compensate for other economic and non-economic damages, such as lost wages and pain and suffering.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
This is one of the most common causes of rollover accidents. Intoxicated drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making it more difficult to avoid obstacles or maintain control of their vehicles.
If a driver is drunk and causes a rollover accident, they may be held responsible for the severe injuries or damages sustained by the no-fault party.
Manufacturer Error
On the other hand, a vehicle designed or built with a defect that affects its center of gravity, such as a faulty suspension or braking system, is more likely to roll over in certain situations. In these cases, the manufacturer is liable for any catastrophic injuries or damages that result from the defect.
Private Road Maintenance Company
Bad road conditions can also contribute to rollover accidents. If a road is poorly maintained or has significant potholes or other hazards, it can increase the risk of a rollover accident.
In this case, the private road maintenance company will be liable for the car accident. It will also have to provide financial compensation for any serious injury and property damage caused to the other driver.
Common Injuries Resulting from a Rollover Accident
Victims injured in a rollover accident may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. However, navigating the complex legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be challenging.
It is crucial for injured drivers to seek the help of a qualified car accident attorney who can help them file a rollover accident claim and recover the compensation they deserve.
Some of the most common injuries caused by rollover crashes are:
Broken Bones
In a rollover car accident, the force of impact can cause bones to fracture or break. The most common bones affected are the arms, legs, and ribs.
The sudden impact of a rollover accident can cause nerve damage, leading to pain, numbness, or even paralysis. This can affect any part of the body, including the arms, legs, hands, and feet.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
On the other hand, a rollover accident can also cause traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of TBI can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.
Back and Neck Injuries
Whiplash is a common injury in rollover crashes, which can cause damage to the neck and spine. This can lead to chronic pain and long-term discomfort.
Aortic Dissection
This rare but serious injury can happen in a rollover accident. It's when the inner section of the aorta tears, causing blood to leak into the outer layers.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help Victims?
Rollover accidents are an unfortunate reality that can happen to anyone at any time. Different factors can cause them, such as distracted driving, high speeds, sharp turns, and even the type of vehicle involved.
Automobiles with a high center of gravity, such as pickup trucks, semi-trucks, and top-heavy vehicles, are more prone to rollover crashes. These accidents can cause serious injuries to those involved, and it can be difficult to determine fault without a free legal consultation. Schuerger Shunnarah can also answer questions like, "What Is a low side and high side motorcycle Crash?"
Driving above the posted speed limit can significantly increase the likelihood of a rollover accident. An experienced car Houston truck accident lawyer can help prove liability and seek compensation for those injured. They can also investigate first responders and gather essential police report(s) from the scene.
The lawyer can also help victims navigate the legal process and deal with insurance companies that may try to deny or minimize their claims.
Final Words
Rollover car accidents happen every day, and they can have devastating effects on the lives of those involved. Victims of such crashes may suffer injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, leading to significant financial strain.
One of the first things a car accident lawyer will do is investigate the incident to determine fault. They will review police reports, witness statements, and other evidence to find out who caused the accident.
Victims should seek a free consultation session from a renowned law office right after the crash. With "We Go to War for You" as its slogan, Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is committed to helping Houston drivers recover the compensation they deserve.