Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck Rollover
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Truck Rollover
Truck Accident LawyerGet a Free Consultation
What should you know about truck rollovers?
With a truck rollover, the roof of the large truck touches the ground at least once. If the truck turns upside down or rolls various times, or if it falls on its side, these types of accidents also fall into the category of rollovers.
An estimated 9 percent of truck accidents a year are rollovers. They frequently take place on freeway ramps and inclines.
What Causes Truck Rollovers?
Driver Errors
Speeding is the most prevalent cause of a rollover. This includes driving too fast for road conditions and speeding into a curve. Due to centrifugal force, a truck will lean in the opposite direction of the curve, and when this occurs it can turn over due to its high center of gravity. Furthermore, when drivers misjudge how sharp the curve is or abruptly counter steer in an attempt to compensate, vehicles become prone to rolling over. Other types of human error that can result in this type of accident are fatigue or drowsiness. An angry, reckless response could also contribute to poor judgement and a truck rolling over.
Vehicle related problems
Vehicle related problems could include:
- A poorly loaded truck that is top-heavy
- Unsecured loads
- Badly distributed cargo
- Failing to maintain proper suspension
- Brakes in poor condition
- Under-inflated tires
- Truck part failures
Road Conditions
Road conditions contributing to rollovers might also involve some degree of human error. This category includes poorly maintained roadways. Potholes, uneven surfaces, along with debris can make it difficult for a truck driver to control the truck and keep it from turning over. Also, improperly designed roads that have unsafe ramps, sharp curves, or steep inclines put trucks at risk. Limited sight due to the terrain, such as a hill, can result in a truck rolling over. An example would be limited visibility on a hill and not enough time to stop after stalled traffic becomes visible. Weather conditions can also be a factor. Ice, rain and snow create slippery surfaces, make driving a truck difficult.
Driver Errors
Speeding is the most prevalent cause of a rollover. This includes driving too fast for road conditions and speeding into a curve. Due to centrifugal force, a truck will lean in the opposite direction of the curve, and when this occurs it can turn over due to its high center of gravity. Furthermore, when drivers misjudge how sharp the curve is or abruptly counter steer in an attempt to compensate, vehicles become prone to rolling over. Other types of human error that can result in this type of accident are fatigue or drowsiness. An angry, reckless response could also contribute to poor judgement and a truck rolling over.
Vehicle related problems
Vehicle related problems could include:
- A poorly loaded truck that is top-heavy
- Unsecured loads
- Badly distributed cargo
- Failing to maintain proper suspension
- Brakes in poor condition
- Under-inflated tires
- Truck part failures
Road Conditions
Road conditions contributing to rollovers might also involve some degree of human error. This category includes poorly maintained roadways. Potholes, uneven surfaces, along with debris can make it difficult for a truck driver to control the truck and keep it from turning over. Also, improperly designed roads that have unsafe ramps, sharp curves, or steep inclines put trucks at risk. Limited sight due to the terrain, such as a hill, can result in a truck rolling over. An example would be limited visibility on a hill and not enough time to stop after stalled traffic becomes visible. Weather conditions can also be a factor. Ice, rain and snow create slippery surfaces, make driving a truck difficult.
How deadly are big rig rollover accidents?
A truck rollover ranks among the deadliest types of truck accidents. Those who are at the highest risk for fatality are the drivers and passengers in other vehicles. Smaller vehicles do not have a strong enough structure to withstand impacts with large trucks. However, truck drivers are also at risk, as are bicyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
Is there technology to help prevent truck rollovers?
Yes, there are Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including:
Active Rollover Protection (ARP)
A system called Active Rollover Protection (ARP) monitors how the vehicle is operating and identifies issues that could result in rollover. Such issues include rapid direction changes, too much lateral force along with being struck by a stationary object. It applies the brakes to certain wheels. In certain instances it might reduce engine torque, which helps slow down the vehicle. This system can be used to integrate with other computer systems, including ESC and the anti-lock braking system.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
ESC is a computerized system with sensors that detects when the vehicle is skidding or veering away from the intended path. It automatically applies the brakes to particular wheels or manages the engine to stabilize the truck and realign it for the correct direction.
Get Legal Help for
Serious Truck Accident Injury and Damages
When dealing with insurance companies, an experienced truck accident lawyer can help you overcome confusion and protect your rights. Trucking companies retain attorneys to protect their bottom lines, and having your own legal representation can help level the playing field. The law entitles you to receive the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation by calling (210) 225-HURT (4878) or toll free (800) 645-8553. At Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz, we will discuss the details your car accident and explain the most effective legal approaches for recovering fair compensation.
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Michael R. De La Paz
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The Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz has its principal office in San Antonio, Texas, however, we can represent your personal injury case no matter where you live in Texas, the U.S., or Mexico.
