Safety Risks in SUV Rollover Accidents

About 10,000 people die each year in SUV rollover accidents in the United States, according to Public Citizen.

The number of SUV rollover accidents is out of proportion statistically with other types of car accidents:

• SUV rollover crashes constitute only 4% of all vehicle collisions BUT
• They represent roughly one-third of all traffic deaths

SUVs are prone to dangerous and deadly rollovers, in large part, because of the vehicle design. An SUV tends to be top-heavy, which can render it unstable in certain traffic situations, such as when a driver is forced to make quick adjustments to the steering wheel.

Another factor to consider is the risk for an SUV roof to collapse in the event of a rollover accident. This has been noted as a particular point of concern in certain models of SUVs.

Common SUV Accident Injuries 

Because of the nature of SUV accidents, and in particular, SUV rollovers, Virginia SUV accident victims are especially prone to specific types of accident injuries.

Listed below are a few of the most common SUV accident injuries:

• Neck injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Brain damage
• Spinal cord trauma
• Paralysis

Research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety suggests that seatbelt usage can significantly reduce the chance that an SUV accident victim will suffer these types of devastating injuries. Equally important is the implementation of design and safety elements in SUVs that would help prevent an SUV rollover victim from being subjected to the type of trauma that causes such debilitating injuries.

Injuries in an SUV Accident

If you have been involved in a Virginia SUV accident, such as a rollover, and you have sustained one or more of these common SUV accident injuries, it is important to take steps to protect your legal rights. As the victim of a Virginia car accident, you may be entitled to seek damages for your personal injuries and loss of property.   

First, critically and carefully consider how your accident injuries have already impacted your life and how you expect they will impact your future. Next, you should consult with a Virginia personal injury attorney who specializes in Virginia SUV accidents. It is important that the accident lawyer you choose to represent you has handled cases like yours and understands Virginia SUV accidents.