Florida roads are unfortunately often the site of serious car accidents. Rollovers are among the most serious and can result in more severe injuries and death.
What are rollover accidents?
While rollovers only make up a very small percentage of all accidents, they are one of the deadliest types. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, rollovers account for around 35% of all fatalities on highways.
Any type of vehicle can suffer a rollover accident. When it happens, the vehicle can land on its side or roof once it comes to a stop. However, larger, heavier vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as trucks or SUVs are more likely to get into this type of accident.
How is a rollover accident caused?
Certain situations can cause a rollover accident. Trips over a curb, uneven pavement or guardrail are common. Rollovers caused by a trip are caused by outside forces.
These accidents can also occur for other reasons such as driver error, excessive speeds or aggressive driving, certain weather conditions, poor road conditions or defects in components of the vehicle. However, the majority of rollover accidents happen because of trips.
What are common injuries caused by rollover accidents?
Rollover accidents commonly result in catastrophic injuries to the occupants inside the affected vehicle. Broken bones and fractures can occur. Head and neck injuries are very common.
Some victims of rollovers suffer internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries. It’s also possible to suffer amputations upon the impact of the crash.
Rollovers can also result in vehicles catching fire. This can lead to severe burns to the victims trapped inside.
While these accidents cannot always be avoided, motorists may be able to reduce the risk by being diligent and avoiding driver error, which is the most common reason behind them.