SUVS and crossovers have officially overtaken sedans to become the most popular vehicle in the United States, according to automotive industry research and advising company, IHS Automotive. These vehicles have gained in mass appeal due to their ability to hold more passengers and possessions. Many drivers also report feeling safer in their SUV because the vehicle is large. While SUVs can offer numerous safety features and benefits, it is important for consumers to recognize that SUVs are more prone to rollover accidents than sedans. In fact, such accidents often result in serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, amputations, paralysis and even death.
Our car accident attorneys at Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, have assisted thousands of individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents across Georgia. We understand the significant losses that may be associated with rollover accidents, which can include massive medical expenses, the inability to return to work, pain and suffering, and more. Our compassionate firm assists each injured rollover client in seeking compensation from the at-fault driver or negligent car manufacturer responsible for the crash.
High Rates of Rollovers Are Occurring Nationwide
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over 10,000 people are killed in rollover accidents annually. The majority of these accidents involve SUVs, trucks, and other larger sized vehicles. Rollover crashes result in more significant injuries than other accidents and increase your risk of injury by 36 percent. The most serious of these crashes result in death, and rollover accidents account for more than half of all deaths in single-vehicle accidents.
SUVs are considered susceptible to rollovers due to their center of gravity. When a tall vehicle hits an obstacle or makes a sharp turn, it can tip. Automakers have taken steps to decrease the risk of SUV rollovers through electronic stability control (ESC). While ESC is effective in preventing rollover accidents on flat surfaces, it does not prevent rollovers caused by “trips” or hitting low objects, such as curbs or ditches.
SUVs and Weak Roofs
An additional safety danger of some SUVs is roof safety issues. SUVs are universally considered to be at an increased risk of rolling over, and many automakers compound this danger by not making their SUVs roofs strong enough to sustain the impact of a rollover. Faulty roofs and those without roll bars may collapse in the event of a rollover, leaving vehicle occupants susceptible to the following serious injuries, among others:
• Head injuries
• Neck injuries
• Decapitation
• Internal organ damage
• Paralysis and related spinal cord injuries
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently added roof strength as one of its factors when evaluating the safety of vehicles. Safety officials hope that providing roof strength ratings will incentivize SUV and other automotive makers to improve the roof safety of their vehicles.
Anyone injured in an SUV rollover crash should consult with one of our attorneys at Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, as soon as possible. Our firm will assess your accident and advice you on the necessary steps to protect your rights.
Put Our Law Firm’s Over 39 Years of Legal Experience to Work For Your Case!
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident, the Car Accident Attorneys at Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, are here to help. For over 39 years, our law firm has assisted accident victims throughout Georgia and the Southeast.
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.
