Atlanta, Georgia
Although they are not as common as other types of car accidents, rollover accidents cause nearly a third of all car accident deaths. The chances of serious injury or death are very high in a rollover accident. Those who survive often suffer disabilities that will be with them for the rest of their lives.
Causes of Rollover Car Accidents
Nearly all rollover accidents are caused by “tripping,” which occurs when the vehicle’s tires strike an uneven surface – usually a curb, grassy shoulder, or bump – which interferes with the car’s momentum, causing it to pitch into a roll. According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), 95% of all single-vehicle rollover accidents are caused by tripping.
Several different factors can potentially initiate tripping, including weather, tire failure, vehicle design, and road conditions. Some of the most common root causes of rollover accidents include:
- Defective tires – Tire failure can act as a tripping mechanism, quickly causing drivers to lose control of their car.
- High center of gravity – Many SUV models, pick-up trucks, and minivans have a high center of gravity, making them more likely to roll in certain circumstances.
- Hazardous roadways – If a stretch of highway is not properly maintained (e.g. potholes, bumps, lack of guardrails) or does not have appropriate warning signs for upcoming hazards (e.g. construction), the sudden evasive maneuvers drivers take to avoid these problems can easily cause a rollover accident.
- T-bone accidents – When the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another at an intersection it can initiate a rollover.
Who is Liable in a Rollover Accident?
Since rollover accidents are often single-vehicle wrecks, determining who is liable can be complicated. This is where having an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. At Robbins & Associates, we work with accident reconstructionists and other experts to thoroughly investigate your accident and determine exactly what caused it.
For example, if your rollover accident was caused by a defective tire, the tire’s manufacturer can be held liable for the injuries you suffered. In some cases, auto repair shops and/or dealerships can also be liable. On the other hand, if a pothole on a poorly maintained highway caused your accident, you can potentially pursue damages from the local government entities responsible for keeping the roadway safe.
If you have been seriously injured in an Atlanta car accident, please contact auto accident attorneys Robbins Law, PC today or call 404-252-8117 to schedule a free case evaluation. We represent injured car accident victims throughout the state of Georgia.