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Rollover crashes account for nearly 30% of passenger fatalities in vehicle accidents despite making up a much smaller portion of total collisions. This startling fact highlights the extreme danger of rollover accidents, especially on California’s busy highways.
At NordstrandBlack PC, we know how devastating these crashes can be for victims and families. Our Santa Barbara-based team is here to explain the most common causes of highway rollovers, how they relate to vehicle safety, and what legal steps you can take if you or a loved one has been affected.
Why Do Rollover Accidents Happen?
Rollover accidents occur when a vehicle tips onto its side or roof. These crashes are violent, often resulting in serious or fatal injuries due to the intense force and potential roof collapse.
High Center of Gravity (Common in SUVs and Trucks)
Vehicles with a higher center of gravity, like SUVs and pickups, are more likely to roll over, especially during sharp turns or emergency maneuvers. Manufacturers have made improvements in vehicle safety systems, including electronic stability control (ESC), but design limitations still pose risks.
Speeding and Sudden Maneuvers
High speeds on freeways like the I-5 or US-101 increase the risk of rollover accidents. Swerving to avoid debris or another vehicle can also lead to a loss of control, especially if a vehicle’s tires lose grip.
Tripping Events
Many rollover accidents are caused by tripping, which means the vehicle’s tire hits something like a curb, soft shoulder, or uneven pavement, causing it to tip.
Tire Blowouts or Mechanical Failures
Faulty tires or suspension systems can cause a driver to lose control. In some cases, manufacturers or service providers may be liable for a defective product or improper repair.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, damaged barriers, and inadequate signage can also play a role. In these cases, public entities that are responsible for road maintenance may be held accountable.
Who’s at Risk for Rollover Accidents?
Rollover accidents can happen to anyone, but some groups face increased danger:
- Drivers of SUVs and trucks, especially when vehicles are overloaded.
- Young drivers who may lack experience in emergency handling.
- Drivers on rural or mountainous highways, where turns are tighter and shoulders are less forgiving.
- Victims in multi-vehicle accidents, where a crash from the side can cause a rollover.
Legal Options After a Rollover Accident
If you or a loved one was injured in a rollover accident, you may have several legal options, depending on the details of your case. Working with a knowledgeable Santa Barbara car accident accident lawyer is essential for accurately identifying liable parties and pursuing fair compensation.
Personal Injury Lawsuits
If someone else’s negligence contributed to your crash, such as a speeding driver, a poorly maintained highway, or a defective part, you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit. Compensation can help with the following:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income
- Future care needs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
Important note: The shortest known statute of limitations for personal injury in California is six months if you’re filing a claim against a government entity. Other cases usually allow two years from the date of the accident, but time is critical.
SUV Accident Claims Against Manufacturers
If a rollover resulted from a design flaw, such as poor roof strength or unstable suspension, the vehicle manufacturer could be liable. These cases may fall under product liability law and often require expert testimony in crash reconstruction law.
Claims Involving Multiple Parties
In many rollover incidents, more than one party may be at fault. For example:
- A speeding driver may have caused the crash.
- A faulty guardrail may have failed to stop the rollover.
- A defective tire may have blown out at highway speeds.
We thoroughly investigate every angle to determine whether a single or joint claim is appropriate. Our approach ensures that victims receive all available compensation from all responsible parties.
How Crash Reconstruction Strengthens Your Case
Understanding how and why a rollover happened is vital in proving fault. Our legal team may call upon accident reconstruction experts who analyze the following:
- Skid marks
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Event data recorders (the “black box“)
- Witness statements
With this information, we can create a clear picture of what went wrong and who’s responsible.
Why Choose NordstrandBlack PC?
At NordstrandBlack PC, we’ve built our reputation on results. We provide strategic, legal support to those suffering from serious car and truck accident injuries. Our personal injury law firm has decades of experience and a proven track record of getting positive results for clients, providing direct attorney access, and thorough case preparation.
We have a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating and an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and offer a free consultation to assess your claim. There are no upfront costs, meaning we only get paid if we win.
When you choose our legal team, you’re not just another case number. You’re a person with real losses who deserves justice.
Speak With Our Experienced Santa Barbara Rollover Accident Lawyers
Rollover accidents are among the most dangerous vehicle collisions on California highways. If you or a loved one is dealing with the aftermath, do not wait to take action. Delays can limit your ability to recover compensation and identify responsible parties.
Our skilled Santa Barbara rollover accident attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you move forward. Whether your case involves SUV accident claims, personal injury lawsuits, or crash reconstruction law, we have the experience and resources to protect your interests.
Let us help you reclaim your future. Contact NordstrandBlack PC today at (805) 962-2022 to learn more.