Georgia SUV Rollover Accidents: Do I Need Electronic Stability Control
SUVs have become the family car of our generation – a modern stylish version of the Station Wagon that was once the classic portrait of the family car. Unfortunately, the SUV has a darker side that is very different from the Norman Rockwell classical image of loading up the family in the Station Wagon and heading out on a family camping trip. SUV rollover accidents can be among the most deadly type of motor vehicle accidents.
The unique design characteristics of SUVs make them prone to rollover accidents because they have a high center of gravity and narrow wheel base. The electronic safety features that are available don't correct these more dangerous design characteristics, but help reduce the likelihood of a rollover under certain circumstances. An electronic stabilization control system (ESC) is an important safety feature that can be the difference between a minor accident or close call and a fatal SUV rollover accident. At Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, we have been helping those seriously injured or killed in Georgia auto accidents for over 39 years.
Anyone considering purchasing an SUV or even a passenger car should consider one equipped with an ESC system. Studies show this safety equipment can have a major role in helping prevent motor vehicle accidents, particularly SUV rollover accidents and other single car collisions with fixed objects. Most SUV rollovers occur when SUV drivers overcorrect their steering after swerving to avoid an obstacle or traffic collision. ESC can help prevent SUV drivers by assisting them in maintaining control of the vehicle after overcorrecting. ESC has sensors that correct the vehicle when it starts to spin out and realigns the vehicle properly on the road by braking one or more wheels. Since the correction has occurred in a carefully controlled manner, drivers may not need to correct the steering.
Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that an electronic stability system can have a major impact in reducing all motor vehicle accidents. A five year study conducted by the NHTSA found that ESC systems reduced single car accidents (i.e. often involving the driver losing control) by 35% in passenger cars and by 67% in SUVs. The study also indicates that ESC systems are an effective way to reduce fatality accidents finding that fatalities were reduced 30% in passenger vehicles and 63% in SUV accidents.
Based on this study, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ESC appears to be effective in reducing (but not eliminating) single vehicle run-off-road crashes such as SUV rollovers, as well as some collisions with fixed objects. Given the enormous safety benefit of an electronic stabilization control system, consumers who are considering a new motor vehicle purchase should consider whether the vehicle has an ESC system. It can prevent an accident that may cause catastrophic injuries and save lives. At Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, we understand the critical importance of preventing motor vehicle accidents and making vehicles safer. We also recognize that no matter what steps are taken, serious car accidents are a reality that will not go away. We have been representing serious car accident victims in Atlanta and throughout the State of Georgia for over 39 years.
Call Montlick & Associates today to see how our Georgia SUV rollover accident lawyers can help. We are available to assist clients throughout all of Georgia, including but not limited to Albany, Athens, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Dalton, Gainesville, Macon, Marietta, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Smyrna, Valdosta, Warner Robins and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. Call us today for your free consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333), or visit us on the web at www.montlick.com. No matter where you are in Georgia, we are just a phone call away and we will even come to you.