Many people associate rollover accidents with Miami truck accidents, but rollovers can occur with virtually any type of vehicle. In fact, many passenger cars are involved in Miami rollover accidents every day, especially as customers have become more interested in vans, SUVs, and other larger vehicles that have a high center of gravity. In the right conditions, virtually any type of passenger vehicle can roll over.
Unfortunately, rollovers can be among the most deadly and dangerous accidents on Miami roads. During a rollover, passengers and any unsecured cargo in the vehicle are generally tossed around violently. Any unsecured cargo can easily come flying at passengers at high speeds, causing Miami brain injuries, broken bones, and even fatal injuries. As well, many passengers in these types of accidents may be ejected from the vehicle, causing even more injury. Rollover accidents also increase the likelihood of multiple vehicle accidents and car fires, making these crashes even more deadly.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that drivers take several precautions to reduce the risks of these types of accidents:
1) Wear a seatbelt. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belt use is one of the most important factors in determining injury and survival rates in an accident. According to the organization, passengers who wear seat belts are 75% more likely to survive a rollover accident, because in most traffic accidents of this kind, fatal injuries occur when passengers are ejected from the car.
2) Load your car carefully. Consult your vehicle’s manual to determine how much your car can carry and stick to that limit. If you use a roof rack, be especially careful about how much weight you place on top of your car, as excess weight on a roof rack can change the center of gravity of your car and actually increase your risk of an accident. As well, make sure that you secure everything in your car, including laptops, tools, and any heavy items. In the event of an accident, this prevents the items from becoming dangerous projectiles.
3) Be especially wary on highways and rural roads, where the risk of rollovers are higher. Any narrow road, curvy road, or high-speed road leaves you less of a margin for error.
4) If one of your tires goes off the road, avoid overcorrecting. Panicking and overcorrecting or over-steering increase the likelihood that you will be in a rollover. If one of your car tires goes off the road, it is best to gradually reduce your speed and gently ease your tires back onto the pavement.
5) Keep yourself focused on driving. According to the NHTSA, the most common reasons for rollover accidents are fatigued driving, drunk driving, and speeding. Drive only when you are in good condition to do so. Do not add to the statistics about Miami drunk driving accidents and fatigued driving accidents.
6) Keep your tires in good condition. Incorrectly inflated or worn tires can cause you to go into a slide, which can increase the chances of a rollover. Check your tires regularly and replace them as needed. Poor tire maintenance can lead to Miami tire blowouts and other problems that can cause a rollover.
Unfortunately, even if you take every precaution, Miami rollover accidents can still happen. If this type of accident does happen to you, contact the Flaxman Law Group at once in order to arrange for a free accident consultation with a qualified personal injury attorney before you make any decisions in your case. Learn the facts about your case and let an experienced attorney determine how much your case may be worth. The legal team at the Flaxman Law Group can help you protect your interests and can advise you of your rights and options.