Rollover crashes are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle collisions. While rollovers make up a relatively small share of total roadway collisions, they are dramatically overrepresented among catastrophic and fatal accidents. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we have the skills and experience to take on even the most serious of rollover collisions. Here, our Wisconsin auto accident lawyers explain why rollover crashes happen and why they are so dangerous.
What is a Rollover Accident?
A rollover accident is a type of crash that happens when a vehicle tips over onto its side or roof. These accidents are particularly dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Notably, certain types of vehicles—such SUVs and other vehicles with a higher center of gravity—are more susceptible to being involved in rollover.
The Most Common Reasons Why Rollovers Happen
Rollover accidents can happen for a wide range of different reasons. Every rollover crash in Wisconsin should be comprehensively investigated to determine what went wrong and why it went wrong. Some of the leading causes of rollover crashes include:
- Speeding: Speed is at least a partial contributing factor in many rollover accidents. Indeed, speeding increases the likelihood of a rollover because it reduces the driver’s reaction time and vehicle control during maneuvers. High speeds amplify the effects of any driver errors, sharp turns, or sudden reactions. Excessive speed on curved roads is particularly risky as the centrifugal force can cause the vehicle to veer off its intended path and rollover.
- Tire Defects: Another one of the most common causes of rollover accidents is bad tires. Problems with tires are a factor in many rollover accidents in Wisconsin. Faulty tires may fail to provide sufficient traction. As a consequence, a vehicle may slip and slide during poor road conditions. Beyond that, tire blowouts (sudden failures) can also cause dangerous rollovers. Regular inspection and tire maintenance are a must.
- Roadway Hazards:Roadway hazards such as potholes, uneven surfaces, or loose materials like gravel can trigger a rollover. When vehicles encounter these unexpected obstacles, they may react unpredictably, and drivers might overcorrect, leading to a loss of control and potential rollover. Poorly maintained roads can lead to catastrophic vehicle rollovers.
- Poor Vehicle Design: Finally, some vehicles are inherently dangerous due to their susceptibility to rollover accidents. While vehicle manufacturers have made significant improvements in recent years, poor design is still a concern that needs to be taken seriously in rollover accident cases. A vehicle manufacturer may be held strictly liable on the grounds of product liability if a design flaw contributed to a rollover accident.
Wisconsin is a fault-based motor vehicle accident state. The motorists, vehicle manufacturer, or any other party that is responsible for contributing to a rollover accident can be held legally liable for the resulting damages. A lawyer can help you gather evidence to prove fault after a rollover.
Why Rollover Accidents are So Dangerous
Rollovers are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle crashes. Indeed, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finds that rollover accidents are highly disproportionately likely to cause serious injuries or fatalities. Here are some of the most notable reasons why these types of accidents are show dangerous:
- High Impact: For a vehicle to roll over, there needs to be a significant amount of force applied. Rollover accidents invariably carry a high impact. Many rollover crashes happened at a high rate of speed. Further, rollovers often involve multiple, intense impacts as the vehicle rolls. It put a tremendous amount of impact on the occupants. Each roll can subject passengers to sudden and violent motions. The injury risk is high.
- Ejection Risk: With serious rollover crashes, there is a risk of a driver or passenger being ejected from the vehicle. Ejections are highly dangerous, as people have little control and are exposed to collisions with external objects, including the ground, at high speeds. Being ejected through a window or door can lead to life-threatening injuries or a fatality. Wearing a seat belt does reduce the risk of an ejection by a significant degree. That being said, even a seat belt cannot completely eliminate the safety threat.
- Crush Risk: Another issue with rollover crashes is that there is a risk of crush injuries. During a rollover, the vehicle’s roof and sides may collapse under the weight of the vehicle, especially if it lacks adequate structural integrity. Occupants can be crushed or trapped inside the vehicle, complicating rescue efforts and increasing the severity of injuries. The risk of spinal injuries, head trauma, and other disabling injuries is elevated.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for a Rollover Crash
Hurt in a rollover accident in Wisconsin? You have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of your damages, including for any non-economic losses. As a rollover can result in devastating injuries, it is crucial that injured victims are able to secure the maximum financial support. Sadly, insurance companies fight hard to settle claims for less—and they may even try to deny liability outright. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our history of verdicts and settlements demonstrate what we can do for injured victims. Along with other types of damages, our Wisconsin car accident lawyers are prepared to help you seek a settlement or verdict for:
- Automobile repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Medical expenses;
- Medications;
- Medical equipment;
- Physical therapy;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of future income;
- Pain and suffering;
- Mental anguish;
- Long-term disability;
- Reduced quality of life; and
- Wrongful death.
Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Wisconsin Auto Accident Attorney
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Wisconsin car accident lawyers are skilled, experienced, and compassionate advocates for victims and families. If you or your loved one was hurt in a rollover wreck, we are here to help. Call us at 608-784-4370 or connect with us online for a no cost, no obligation case assessment. From our offices in Onalaska, Eau Claire, and La Crosse, we handle rollover accident claims throughout the surrounding region in Wisconsin.