As you drive along the highway, rollover car accidents can happen in an instant, often with devastating consequences. These complex crashes have multiple causes and result in some of the most catastrophic injuries. Understanding key factors that lead to rollovers and the legal options available following these incidents empowers you to drive safely and seek justice if impacted. With knowledge of accident reconstruction, common injuries, and potential legal remedies, you can make informed choices on the road and after an incident. Though rollover crashes may seem random, arming yourself with information places you in the driver’s seat.
Understanding Rollover Accidents: Common Causes and Risk Factors
Rollover accidents occur when a vehicle tips over onto its side or roof. These incidents often lead to catastrophic injury or death due to the vulnerability of occupants being ejected or crushed. Several factors contribute to rollovers, including vehicle design, speed, and road conditions.
Vehicle Design
Vehicles with a higher center of gravity, such as SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans, are more prone to rollovers. As these vehicles take a turn at higher speeds, their higher center of gravity can cause them to flip over. Occupants of these vehicles have a much higher risk of being injured in a rollover crash.
Speeding
Excessive speed is a leading cause of rollover accidents. As a vehicle's speed increases, it becomes more difficult for the driver to control and stabilize. Sharp or abrupt turns at high speeds can easily cause a vehicle to tip over. Obeying posted speed limits and driving cautiously, especially on curved roads, can help prevent rollovers.
Road Conditions
Slick, uneven, or gravel road surfaces reduce a vehicle's traction and stability. Blowouts or flat tires can also lead to loss of control and rollovers. Hydroplaning on wet roads is another common cause. To avoid rollovers in these conditions, reduce speed, avoid sudden braking, steering or acceleration, and increase following distance between vehicles.
By understanding the major causes of rollover accidents, drivers can take preventative actions and precautions to avoid these catastrophic events. Following safe driving practices, choosing appropriate vehicles for one's needs, and adapting driving style to road conditions can all help reduce the risk of rollover crashes. If involved in a rollover, seeking immediate medical attention and legal counsel regarding compensation for injuries is advisable.
The Dangers of Rollovers: Most Common Injuries in These Crashes
Rollover accidents often result in severe injuries to vehicle occupants. The human body is not well equipped to handle the forces involved in a rollover crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rollovers account for nearly 35% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. each year.
The most common injuries in rollover crashes include:
- Traumatic brain injuries: The violent motions of a rollover can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, resulting in concussions or more severe brain damage. These injuries may have long-term cognitive and physical effects.
- Spinal cord injuries: Rollovers frequently cause damage to the spinal cord, which can lead to partial or full paralysis. The neck is especially at risk during a rollover.
- Crushed limbs: Occupants can have arms, legs, hands or feet crushed by the weight of the rolling vehicle, especially if part of their body is outside the vehicle during some point of the rollover sequence.
- Internal organ damage: The extreme forces in a rollover may cause internal organs like the liver, kidneys or spleen to rupture or become damaged. This internal trauma may not be immediately apparent but requires prompt medical attention.
- Fractures and broken bones: Rollovers often lead to broken ribs, collarbones, pelvises, and limbs. These fractures can require surgery and long recovery periods.
- Ejection: Occupants who are fully or partially ejected from the vehicle during a rollover have a much higher risk of fatal injury. Wearing proper restraints like seat belts and shoulder harnesses can help prevent ejection.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rollover accident, seek legal counsel regarding your rights and potential remedies available under the law. An experienced attorney can help you pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Steps to Take After a Rollover Crash
After a rollover accident, it is critical to take the proper steps to protect yourself legally and physically. As soon as possible, call emergency services for any injuries. Even if you feel fine initially, rollover crashes can cause internal damage that may not be immediately apparent. Get checked out by paramedics right away.
Once emergency responders have addressed any medical needs, be sure to contact the police to file an official report of the incident. Provide the officer with details about what happened leading up to and during the crash. Get the contact information for any witnesses as well, in case their accounts of the events are needed later. Request a copy of the police report for your records and insurance claim.
Next, get in touch with your insurance provider to start a claim for any damages or injuries resulting from the rollover crash. Your auto insurance policy will likely cover costs like vehicle repairs or replacement, medical bills, lost wages if you miss work, and possibly other expenses depending on your specific policy details and limits. Cooperate fully with the insurance company's investigation into the accident.
You may also want to consider contacting a personal injury attorney regarding the possibility of pursuing further legal action. Rollover accidents are often caused by product defects or other negligent behavior, not just driver error. A lawyer can evaluate the details of your specific crash to determine if you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit against another party like an auto manufacturer or parts supplier. If there appears to be evidence of liability, litigation may help you recover additional damages beyond what your insurance policy covers.
In summary, after a rollover crash, call for emergency help right away, contact the police to report the accident, file a claim with your insurance provider, and speak to a personal injury lawyer regarding your legal options for pursuing further compensation related to the incident. Following these steps can help ensure you get the medical attention, financial assistance, and justice you need.
Pursuing Legal Action With a Texas Car Accident Lawyer
If you were seriously injured in a rollover accident in Texas that was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. The at-fault party and their insurance company are legally responsible for the damages from the crash, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. However, insurance companies typically try to settle claims for as little money as possible. To get fully compensated, you need an experienced Texas car accident lawyer advocating on your behalf.
A qualified attorney can investigate your rollover accident to prove liability and the extent of your damages. They can deal with insurance companies and use their knowledge of personal injury law to build a strong case. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may file a lawsuit to take the case to court. In Texas, most personal injury claims settle before trial, but your lawyer will be prepared to fully litigate the case if necessary to get you the maximum compensation allowed under the law.
Some of the damages a Texas rollover accident lawyer can help you recover include:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, etc.)
- Lost wages from missed work
- Loss of future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your job
- Pain and suffering to compensate for physical pain and mental anguish
- Property damage to repair or replace your vehicle
- Punitive damages in cases of reckless or intentional harm
Time is of the essence following a serious rollover accident. Evidence must be preserved, and witnesses’ memories are freshest immediately after the crash. Contact a reputable Texas car accident law firm as soon as possible for a free case review and to get started pursuing the compensation you deserve. With an experienced lawyer advocating for you, you have the best chance of recovering damages for your rollover accident injuries.
Rollover Accident Lawsuit FAQs: Answered by a Texas Car Accident Lawyer
Once you have recovered from a rollover accident and its resulting injuries, you may want to consider pursuing legal action. A rollover accident lawsuit can help recover compensation for damages like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, the legal process can be complicated. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about rollover accident lawsuits:
What is the statute of limitations for filing a rollover accident lawsuit?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit before you lose your right to recover compensation. It is best to contact a rollover accident lawyer as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.
Do I have a valid claim for a rollover accident lawsuit?
If another party’s negligence caused your rollover accident and resulting injuries, you likely have grounds for a personal injury claim. Common causes of rollover accidents that indicate negligence include:
- Defective vehicle design or manufacturing: Faulty tires, brakes, or stability control could make a vehicle prone to rollovers.
- Reckless driving by another motorist: Excessive speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, etc. by another driver that caused your rollover.
- Dangerous road conditions: Poor road design, lack of proper signage, debris in the road, etc. that contributed to your rollover.
- Product liability: Defective vehicle components like tires, brakes or roof structures that failed to properly protect occupants.
If any of these factors apply to your rollover accident, you probably have a valid claim. A rollover accident lawyer can evaluate the details of your case to determine if you are entitled to compensation.
How much is my rollover accident lawsuit worth?
The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries and other damages. A rollover accident can easily result in six-figure settlements to cover costs like:
- Emergency medical care and ongoing treatments
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Lost income from missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage to your vehicle
Your Texas rollover accident lawyer will evaluate all aspects of your case to determine a fair settlement value and fight to obtain maximum compensation on your behalf.
Conclusion
Although rollover accidents can be devastating, understanding their causes and seeking proper medical and legal help can aid recovery. By learning about roof strength regulations, recall notices, and handling techniques, you can make informed choices to avoid rollovers. Should an accident occur, diagnosing injuries through medical imaging and examinations is crucial. Consulting a qualified attorney from lawyers at Fletcher Law regarding liability and legal action ensures you receive fair compensation. While rollovers can't always be prevented, knowledge, vigilance and assertiveness can help limit injuries and get justice. By staying informed and proactive, you can feel empowered to navigate this threat to your safety.