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Rollover accidents are among the most dangerous motor vehicle crashes, and often result in severe injuries or fatalities. These collisions occur when a vehicle tips onto its side or roof, sometimes rolling multiple times before coming to a stop. Understanding the common causes of rollover accidents and the factors that increase their likelihood can help drivers stay safe and informed.
What Causes Rollover Accidents?
Rollover accidents in North Mississippi can be attributed to a combination of factors, including vehicle design, road conditions, and driver behavior. Below are some of the most common causes:
- Vehicle Design and Type – Vehicles with a high center of gravity, such as SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks, are more prone to rolling over. Their taller design makes them less stable when making sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.
- Speeding – Excessive speed significantly increases the risk of a rollover accident. High speeds amplify the forces acting on a vehicle during a sudden turn or collision, making it more likely to tip over.
- Sharp Turns or Swerving – Abrupt steering changes can cause a car to lose stability and roll over, especially if the tires lose traction or the tread wears out.
- Road Conditions – Potholes, soft shoulders, and uneven roads can cause a car to become unstable and roll over.
- Overloading the Vehicle – Carrying excessive weight, especially on the roof of a vehicle, raises its center of gravity and makes it more susceptible to tipping over. This is a common issue for SUVs and pickup trucks used for hauling.
- Rear end and near T-bone collisions with a larger vehicle – The disparity in size and speed can easily result in cars flipping over even numerous times.
- Alcohol or Drug Impairment – Driving under the influence impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it more likely for a driver to lose control of their vehicle and cause a rollover accident.
Risk Factors That Increase the Likelihood of Rollover Accidents
Some factors will inevitably increase the likelihood of having a rollover accident. These factors include, but aren’t limited to, the following:
- Driver Error – Rollover accidents can result from aggressive driving practices, such as tailgating and lane-changing, driver exhaustion, and distracted driving.
- Single-Vehicle Crashes – Most rollovers involve a single vehicle. Drivers losing control due to overcorrection, swerving to avoid obstacles, or failing to navigate a curve are common scenarios.
- Passenger Overload – Too many passengers in a vehicle can affect stability, especially if passengers are not evenly distributed.
What Should You Do If You Are Injured in a Rollover Accident in North Mississippi?
Mississippi law allows accident victims to seek compensation for their injuries, but acting quickly and following the proper procedures is essential.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Your health and safety should always come first. Even if you feel fine, get a second professional opinion about your potential injuries.
- Report the Accident – Mississippi law requires drivers to report any car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. To be safe, assume that all accidents have damage over $500 and contact the police to ensure an official accident report is filed.
- Document the Scene – Take pictures of the vehicles, the nearby conditions, and any visible injuries. Get photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Obtain contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance details with other drivers involved.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney – Mississippi follows a comparative negligence system, which means your compensation may be lowered if you are found partially at fault for the accident. Consulting an experienced Southaven personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and maximize your potential compensation.
- File Your Claim Before the Statutory Deadline – In Mississippi, the statute of limitations gives you three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. Failing to file within this timeframe could result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Let Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman Help You Seek Justice for Your Injuries
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rollover accident in North Mississippi, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact the Southaven and Hernando offices of Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman for compassionate and experienced representation. Let us manage the legal steps for you while you focus on recovery.
