It doesn’t take an expert in physics or auto safety to tell you that the experience of a rollover in any type of vehicle, no matter the speed or intensity, is a harrowing experience. Fortunately, there are a few key ways to avoid the hazard when you are driving in Florida. Above all, it’s helpful to understand what gets the car rolling and sets this often serious accident type into motion.
Types of rollovers
There are several different ways in which a vehicle can roll over. In some cases, the automobile will flip and end up on the side or roof. More dramatic rolls may involve and end-over-end motion. However, vehicle rollovers of any severity are enough to cause severe injuries.
Most rollovers occur when the force with which the tires grip onto the roadway exceeds the momentum of the vehicle. When this combination of traction and motion occurs, the tires may start to skid across the road.
Why do rollovers happen?
Some vehicles are more likely to roll over than others. These include trucks, vans and SUVs. For those who operate these vehicle types, it’s important to be aware of the added risk they present to themselves and other road users.
Most passenger vehicles like sedans don’t run nearly as high a risk of rollover. The likelihood of a rollover tends to increase the bigger the vehicle and the heavier the load.
Modern roadways are designed with camber, which means they’re raised in the middle and taper off on both edges. Although this allows rainwater to drain, it also causes the vehicles on the road to tip slightly. While this is only a minor tilt, it may contribute to any existing balance issues.
The operator of the vehicle also plays a key role in these types of accidents. Drivers run an increased risk of this type of accident if they’re in an emotional state, when they’re likely distracted and unprepared for obstacles or changes on the road.