Each year, there are more and more fatalities in St. Louis because of car accidents. Rollover truck accidents account for about 30% of passenger vehicle deaths.
An average commercial vehicle weighs approximately 80,000 pounds, and when you load it up with cargo, the impact of that massive vehicle on a passenger vehicle will almost always result in fatal damage. If you or a loved one has recently been involved or injured in a Missouri rollover crash, then it’s a good idea to speak with a St. Louis auto accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Common Cause of Rollover Crashes
Any accident involving a commercial vehicle, whether an 18-wheeler, a semi, or even a tractor-trailer is complicated. That’s because such accidents are known to often be fatal, not only to the truck driver but also to passers-by and occupants of other vehicles. It is therefore important to understand the factors that lead to a truck rollover accident. Rollover crashes are tragic no doubt and should be handled adeptly.
Based on data collected over the years, the following are the common causes of rollover crashes:
- Speeding – Note that all vehicles can actually roll over. However, taller vehicles with narrower frames like vans, pickups, and SUVs have a higher center of gravity. This means that these kinds of vehicles are more vulnerable to rollover should they be involved in a single-vehicle crash.
Based on the data of the previous years, fatal rollover crashes frequently involve speeding. Almost a quarter of rollover crashes happened in places where the posted speed limit is 55 miles per hour or higher. Speeding creates more power; which means that the impact of the collision will always be stronger, and the rollover is usually almost fatal.
- Distracted or Negligent Driving – Unfortunately many drivers are still too lackadaisical about the dangers of using phones while driving. When on the road, all your attention should always be on the road. One second of distraction is all it takes to cause a swivel, rollover, and crash. It just takes a single notification beep to take your eyes off the road, and the next thing you know you’re facing death and taking other innocents along with you.
- Alcohol – Drunk driving has led to thousands of lives being lost. Still many drivers think they are capable enough to drink and drive. Nearly half of the fatal rollover crashes in Missouri involve alcohol. When driving, you need to be fully alert and rational. Even a single shot can negatively impact your judgment, vision, and muscular coordination, making you a driving hazard.
- Driver Behavior – NHTSA data shows that more than 85% of vehicles in rollover crashes are single-vehicle crashes. This means that most fatalities and crashes do not involve other cars aside from the one that rolled over, which strongly suggests that the driver was either negligent, inexperienced, or both.
- Road Conditions – The poor conditions of roads and highways can add to the difficulty of maneuvering a heavy vehicle and make driving dangerous. Several accidents have been attributed to poor roads especially on those that are steep, going downhill, sharply curved, or winding. Accidents have also been caused due to the vehicle hitting a bump or debris on the road.
Determining who is at fault, the extent of damage, the negligence in driving if there are any and if the driver is employed by a trucking company or an independent contractor are just a few of the things an experienced attorney can help you with. They can also help ensure your legal rights are protected throughout the process.