Speed and Center of Gravity

Most rollover crashes occur on roads where the speed limit is 55 mph or above. As a result of their higher centers of gravity, SUVs, vans and pick up trucks are associated with a higher percentage of rollover fatalities than passenger cars. When such a vehicle carries passengers or cargo at high speeds, its center of gravity becomes even higher. A vehicle traveling at a high speed coupled with a high center of gravity is far more likely to be a rollover risk than a vehicle with a low center of gravity that’s moving at a relatively low speed.

Causes of Rollover Crashes

The NHTSA estimates that more than 90 percent of all rollover accidents are the result of tripping that occurs when a vehicle hits an object like another vehicle, a curb or guard rail. When a motorist tries to correct a trip, the vehicle’s center of gravity shifts and the vehicle goes into a roll. Even the shoulder of a road can cause tripping.

Earlier this week, a rollover accident involving two vehicles occurred in downtown Missoula at the intersection of Higgins Avenue and Broadway. According to ABC Fox Montana, one of the drivers was arrested for driving under the influence. A woman and her baby who were injured in the crash were transported to a local hospital.

Common Severe Rollover Injuries

Another driver might cause a rollover accident, but most rollovers involve single vehicles. A critical design goal for any vehicle that carries passengers is for it to resist a rollover. Faulty vehicle designs or parts might also be responsible for a rollover. These type of crashes are frighteningly dangerous for drivers and passengers. Here are three reasons why:

• Roofs crush, and windshields and windows shatter.
• Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries can be suffered when roofs crush. Traumatic amputations, organ damage and multiple fractures can also result.
• Without a seat belt, drivers and passengers are far more likely to be thrown from a vehicle and suffer fatal injuries.

Contact an Experienced Missoula Injury Lawyer

Whether you believe that it’s another driver’s carelessness and negligence, a design issue or a defective part that causes a rollover crash, we’re here to help. We’ve represented countless accident victims who have invoked their right to pursue fair compensation as a result of the negligence of somebody else. If you’ve been injured in a rollover or any other kind of accident in or around Missoula, contact us right away to arrange for a free consultation and case review. We’re trained listeners and advisors, and we’ll discuss all of your legal options with you.

Contact us right away for that free consultation and case review after being injured in any accident.