Most rollover crashes occur when a vehicle runs off the road and is tripped by a ditch, curb, soft soil, or other object that causes it to flip. However, it’s important to note that these instances are not the only reasons why rollover accidents happen. Unexpected tire explosions, blowouts, tread losses, tire belt separations all place vehicles at a heightened risk of a serious crash, particularly when highway speeds are involved. These accidents are called “single vehicle crashes” because they did not involve a collision with another vehicle.
More than 10,000 people die each year in rollover crashes. The rollover resistance rating, or rollover propensity, essentially measures a vehicle’s center of gravity and track width to determine its top-heaviness. The more top-heavy the vehicle, the more likely it is to roll over. While rollovers do not occur as frequently as other types of crashes, when they do, the result is often serious injury or death. Rollovers annually account for more than side and rear crash fatalities combined.
Sport Utility Vehicles and Tire Tread Separations
Belt-leaving-belt tread separations, whether or not they are accompanied by a loss of air from the tire, reduce the ability of drivers to control their vehicles. This is even more dangerous when the tire failure occurs on rear tires operated at highway speeds. If the tread separation or pressure loss occurs on the front tire, the driver usually is able to regain control of his or her vehicle using the brake and steering wheel. However, when it happens to the rear tire, the loss of control can be serious enough to result in a crash or rollover. The likelihood of a crash, and injuries or fatalities, is far greater when the tread separation occurs on a SUV versus a sedan or large pickup truck. Many SUVs have a higher rollover propensity, and are far more likely to injure or kill drivers and passengers in rollovers.
Legal Help for Rollovers and Tire Tread Separation Crashes
Both Martindale-Hubble and the Steven J. Sharp Award have recognized Willis Law Firm’s experience in handling personal injury cases for individuals and families suffering as a result of damaged or defective tires. We’re here to represent litigation for tire tread separations, blowouts, roof crushes, rollovers and other vehicle crashes. Our services cover all stages of the personal injury lawsuit, and we’re here for you from evidence gathering to the final verdict. Don’t wait to contact us for your consultation. Email us, or place a toll-free call to 1-800-883-9858, today.