2 factors that can affect the likelihood of a rollover accident – and its severity

Car accidents happen every day. Rollover crashes can be one of the most devastating types of traffic accidents. A recent rollover crash on Interstate 4 resulted in significant delays for commuters.

While details about the vehicle and passengers involved in this accident were not reported, it’s worth understanding how these factors than can affect the risk of a rollover accident – and resulting injuries.

Vehicle type

Many drivers prefer buying SUVs for their added height and sturdiness. In an SUV, a driver can see above other cars and feel more protected behind the wheel. However, the higher center of gravity of such vehicles actually makes them much more prone to tipping. In fact, an SUV is more than 11 times as likely to roll over in a crash, compared to a standard car. Light trucks also have an increased risk of rolling over: 1.7 times higher than a car.

Age of passenger

Due to the nature of rollover accidents, such accidents tend to result in passenger death more often than other types of accidents. This is especially true when children are involved. Studies have found that the severity of injuries sustained from rollover accidents is considerably worse for children. When a child is involved in a rollover crash, there is a two-fold increased risk in injury and an 80% greater risk of death.

Rollover accidents tend to lead to some of the most serious car crash injuries – from traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries to death. If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a rollover crash due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to understand your rights and recourse under the law.