Understanding Rollover Accidents and Their Impact on Accident Claims

Rollover accidents are some of the most catastrophic and terrifying types of vehicle crashes. When a car flips over, whether it lands on its side, roof, or rolls multiple times, the aftermath can be devastating. These accidents often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and complex legal claims. Navigating the aftermath requires a deep understanding of the nuances involved, and this is where Law Sharks, with our commitment encapsulated in our tagline “We Win Or It’s Free”®, can make a significant difference.

What Are Rollover Accidents?

Rollover accidents occur when a vehicle tips over onto its side or roof. Unlike typical collisions, rollovers involve a vehicle’s entire structure, leading to a high potential for injury. These accidents can be caused by various factors, including sharp turns, collisions with another vehicle, hitting a curb, or losing control due to hazardous road conditions.

Certain vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, and vans, are more prone to rollovers because of their higher center of gravity. However, any vehicle can roll over under the right (or wrong) circumstances.

Who Is Responsible for Rollover Accidents?

Determining responsibility in a rollover accident can be complicated. Responsibility may rest on several parties, depending on the specifics of the incident:

1. The Driver: In many cases, the driver of the vehicle that rolls over may be held responsible, especially if they were speeding, driving recklessly, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Sudden maneuvers or overcorrecting can lead to a loss of control, causing the vehicle to roll over.
2. Another Driver: If a rollover occurs because another driver collided with the vehicle or forced it off the road, that driver may be held liable. This can happen in scenarios where a car swerves to avoid a reckless driver, resulting in a rollover.
3. Vehicle Manufacturers: Sometimes, the vehicle itself is to blame. Defects in design, such as a high center of gravity or poor stability control, can increase the likelihood of a rollover. In such cases, the manufacturer may be held accountable under product liability laws.
4. Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, lack of proper signage, or debris on the roadway can contribute to a rollover accident. If a governmental entity responsible for maintaining the road is found to have been negligent, they could be held liable.

Common Injuries in Rollover Accidents

The violent nature of rollover accidents means that the injuries sustained are often severe. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The head can be violently jolted or struck during a rollover, leading to concussions, skull fractures, or even more severe brain injuries. TBIs can have long-term effects, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and emotional difficulties.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a rollover can cause serious damage to the spine, potentially leading to paralysis. These injuries are life-altering, requiring extensive medical treatment and ongoing care.
• Bone Fractures: The force of the accident can result in broken bones, including arms, legs, ribs, and the pelvis. Some fractures may require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: The violent movement during a rollover can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs. These injuries are often life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass and metal can cause deep cuts and lacerations, leading to significant blood loss and scarring.

Where Do Rollover Accidents Typically Occur?

Rollover accidents can happen anywhere, but they are more likely to occur in certain environments:

• High-Speed Roads: Rollovers are more common on highways and other roads where vehicles are traveling at higher speeds. A sudden maneuver or collision at high speed can easily cause a vehicle to flip.
• Rural Roads: Roads in rural areas often lack the safety features found on urban roads, such as guardrails. They may also have sharp curves and uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of a rollover.
• Curvy Roads: Sharp turns and winding roads pose a higher risk for rollover accidents, especially for vehicles with a higher center of gravity.
• Off-Road Terrain: Vehicles driven off-road, particularly those that are not designed for such use, are at higher risk of rollover accidents due to uneven terrain and obstacles.

Why You Should Hire a Lawyer After a Rollover Accident

Rollover accidents often lead to complex legal situations. From determining fault to negotiating with insurance companies, the process can be overwhelming. This is why it’s crucial to have an experienced lawyer by your side.

Law Sharks specializes in handling rollover accident claims with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved. Here’s why hiring a lawyer is essential:

1. Determining Liability: As mentioned earlier, liability in rollover accidents can be difficult to establish. A skilled lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances, gather evidence, and identify all potentially responsible parties. This may include reconstructing the accident, consulting with experts, and reviewing vehicle maintenance records.
2. Navigating Insurance Claims: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. They may argue that the accident was your fault or that your injuries are not as severe as claimed. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
3. Handling Complex Legal Procedures: Rollover accidents can involve multiple legal claims, including personal injury, product liability, and claims against government entities. An experienced lawyer will navigate these complexities, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and within deadlines.
4. Maximizing Compensation: The costs associated with a rollover accident can be staggering. Medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs add up quickly. A lawyer will work to ensure that all your damages are accounted for, including future expenses, so you receive the maximum compensation possible.
5. Peace of Mind: After a traumatic event like a rollover accident, the last thing you need is additional stress. Knowing that an experienced legal team is handling your case allows you to focus on recovery.

Relevant Practice Areas

Rollover accidents intersect with several other areas of law, making it important to choose a firm that understands the broader implications. At Law Sharks, our expertise spans multiple practice areas that often overlap with rollover accident claims, including:

• Product Liability: If a defect in the vehicle contributed to the rollover, a product liability claim may be pursued against the manufacturer or distributor.
• Personal Injury: Rollover accidents are a major cause of serious personal injuries. Our team is well-versed in securing compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
• Wrongful Death: Tragically, rollover accidents can result in fatalities. In such cases, the victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim.
• Premises Liability: If a rollover was caused by poor road conditions or hazards that should have been addressed by the property owner or government, a premises liability claim might be necessary.

Conclusion

Rollover accidents are harrowing events that often result in severe injuries and complex legal challenges. Determining who is at fault, navigating insurance claims, and handling the legal process requires expertise and experience. That’s where Law Sharks comes in. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve, standing by our promise: “We Win Or It’s Free”®.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a rollover accident, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Law Sharks today, and let us fight for you.