Vehicle Rollover 101

Rollovers are terrifying experiences. Although rollovers are rare, they account for many traffic fatalities and injuries. Thankfully, new technology and improved vehicle design has lessened the number of rollovers and rollover related injuries.

How a Rollover Happens?

Any vehicle can rollover. Certain vehicles are more susceptible to rollovers. Vehicles such as SUVs, pickups, and vans are more susceptible to rollovers because they have a higher center of gravity.

Single vehicle rollovers are usually caused by a trip. For example, the vehicle swerved into a curb, pothole, or a soft roadside shoulder. This trip can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. According to the government, trips account for the majority of single vehicle rollovers.

Although these larger vehicles are more susceptible to rollovers, many of these vehicles now have rollover prevention systems. These systems stabilize the vehicle. It recognizes a possible rollover and applies brakes to resist.

Preventing and surviving a rollover

Rollovers have caused many traffic fatalities, but rollovers are avoidable. Every driver should take these preventative steps to protect themselves.

New cars are more expensive, but they have more advanced technology and are more likely to protect you. Newer vehicles have a much lower fatality rate than the rate of older models. Look for vehicles that have advanced safety systems, such as electronic stability control and side curtain air bags.

It is important to properly maintain your tires. If your tires are in good shape and properly inflated, you are less likely to rollover. Improper tire inflation can contribute to rollovers. You should plan for monthly inflation pressure examinations. Before inflating tires, you should check your car for the proper inflation level for your tires.

Speeding can increase your susceptibility to rollovers. Many fatal rollovers involved excessive speeding. Follow the speed limit and protect yourself.

Do not overload your vehicle. Overloading your vehicle decreases its stability. This is especially dangerous in larger vehicles like SUVs and pickups. Avoid placing any heavy loads on the roof. This practice can really destabilize your vehicle. Place the heaviest cargo low on the floor and close to the center of the vehicle. Your vehicle has load ratings specified by its manufacturer. Stay well within this range to prevent rollovers.

Some roads can be quite treacherous. The majority of fatal rollovers occurred in rural areas on dangerous roads. These roads often unlit, winding, and often have a high speed limits. This is an incredibly dangerous combination. Drive carefully on the road.

Everyone in a vehicle needs to wear a seat beat. These belts will protect you in the case of a rollover. Without a seat belt, you will may be ejected from the vehicle or sustain very serious injuries. Many of the rollover fatalities occur when people are ejected from the vehicle.