Georgia Rollover Accidents Common Questions [Part II]

This is the second installment in our two-part blog post discussing common questions about rollover accident injury claims. Because these accidents account for a disproportionate number of serious injuries and fatalities, it is important that consumers understand the unique risks that contribute to these potentially deadly collisions. If you have not had the opportunity to review the Part I of this blog post, we invite you to do so before reviewing Part II.

How is the value of a vehicle rollover accident determined?

There is no straightforward answer to this question because so many factors impact the value of a personal injury claim or lawsuit arising from injuries suffered in a rollover accident. The value of the claim will depend on the specific facts of the case, but it is generally accurate to say that more serious and permanent injuries will mean that a damage claim has more financial value provided that liablity can be established. If you suffer a broken bone, you can recover for your medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, emotional distress and property damage, but the recovery typically will be more limited than if you suffer a spinal cord injury that causes paralysis or a traumatic head injury that causes long-term cognitive disabilities. When you suffer these types of permanent injury, you may be entitled to more significant damages to compensate you for your future lost earnings and diminished quality of life.

Another important factor that can impact the value of your rollover accident injury claim is the applicability of punitive damages. There are certain situations where the conduct of the defendant is so egregious that the jury may consider awarding damages to "punish" the defendant and discourage similar conduct in the future. Examples of situations that might merit punitive damages include a car crash caused by a drunk driver or a vehicle manufacturer that ignores clear evidence that their vehicle is dangerous.

What are the most common causes of vehicle rollover accidents?

Although some rollover accidents involving passenger vans, SUVs and pickups that suffer a tire blowout, there are many other factors that can cause a vehicle to rollover. One common type of rollover accident is called a "tripping accident," which occurs when the tire of the vehicle hits a median, drops off the shoulder or loses traction on soft dirt or sand. When a vehicle is overloaded with passengers and cargo, this also can contribute to a rollover because of an increase in the G-force when negotiating a turn so that the vehicle is prone to continue in a straight direction due to the force of inertia despite the driver's attempt to negotiate the curve.

Why are newer model SUVs generally less likely to be the cause of severe injuries and fatalities than older model SUVs?

New SUVs generally perform better in rollover tests and provide more reinforcement of the roof to reduce the risk of roof crush injuries. Electronic stabilization control (ESC) also is now standard on new model SUVs. This technology involves using an onboard computer system to apply the brakes individually to compensate for over-steering by a driver in an emergency. ESC technology is designed to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle to avoid a rollover. Many newer model SUVs also come equipped with more airbags which can reduce the risk of vehicle ejections. 

Put Our Law Firm's Over 39 Years Experience to Work For You!

If you or your loved one has been involved in a rollover collision in Georgia, our Atlanta accident attorneys at Montlick and Associates have been representing injury victims for over thirty years throughout all of Georgia and the Southeast, including but not limited to Albany, Athens, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Gainesville, Macon, Marietta, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Smyrna, Valdosta, Warner Robins and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. No matter where you are located our attorneys are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.