Rollover Accidents and Vehicle Safety

In recent years, the quintessential American family car has shifted from the once-ubiquitous station wagon to vehicles of a higher profile such as SUVs and minivans. These vehicles are marketed to families because of their ability to accommodate a larger quantity of passengers and cargo than other vehicles.

Because SUVs and minivans are so heavily marketed to families, the common misconception is that these large vehicles are somehow safer than others. Tragically, this is not the case: the high profile and low center of gravity of minivans, and especially SUVs, make them prone to dangerous rollover accidents that are a leading cause of death on American roads.

Rollover Accident Causes and Injuries

Vehicles such as minivans and SUVs have a high center of gravity, which makes them more prone to roll over if a driver swerves, turns too quickly, or makes a defensive driving maneuver. In the event of a vehicle rollover, occupants may be thrown about the vehicle cabin. A passenger in this type of accident is at risk for serious brain or spinal cord injury and possible death.

The most common vehicle rollover injuries are sustained as a result of roof crush, a condition that occurs when the roof of a vehicle is not adequately supported and is thrust into the vehicle cabin by the force of the accident.

Rollover Accident Victim Compensation

In many cases, the companies that manufacturer and market these vehicles to families are aware of their unsafe nature. Unfortunately, it is often more cost-effective to offer safety features such as electronic stability control systems as optional add-ons, rather than making them standard on all such vehicles. In addition to electronic stability controls, many injuries could be prevented if rollover-prone vehicles were equipped with reinforced roof structures.

If you or someone you love has been injured or worse in a rollover accident, especially in an SUV or minivan, poor auto design could have been a factor. It is in your best interests to contact experienced personal injury lawyers to help you thoroughly investigate your case to protect your legal rights.