Rollover crashes are among the most dangerous vehicle accidents in the United States. If you’re wondering what causes a rollover car accident, the answer often includes factors like high speed, tire failure, driver error, or loss of control on curves or uneven road surfaces. SUVs, vans, and trucks carry a higher risk due to their weight and center of gravity.
Many rollovers involve single-car accidents, but they can also result from collisions with other vehicles, debris, or defective auto parts. A rollover car accident lawyer in Charleston can review the cause, and help determine liability, which is key in filing an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Legal Implications After a Rollover Accident
When a rollover crash happens, legal steps often follow. Victims may face long-term medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering. A legal claim may help cover damages from injuries, property damage, or wrongful death in more severe cases.
Investigating the cause of the rollover is important. This may include reviewing debris, crash photos, eyewitness statements, and emergency services reports. Vehicle defects, tire failure, or lack of proper safety features may also be factors.
What might be involved after a rollover:
- Filing a personal injury claim for medical bills and pain
- Seeking coverage under auto insurance or liability coverage
- Documenting physical injuries like whiplash or spinal cord damage
- Addressing vehicle damage, road hazards, or defective parts
In fatal accidents, a family may also consider a wrongful death claim to cover funeral costs and seek justice. Knowing what to expect after the crash can help protect your rights and support recovery.
Below are some of the most common causes our personal injury lawyers in Charleston have seen so far in these accidents. Remember that, if you were injured, you may be entitled to seek financial compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost income.
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1. Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs remains one of the leading causes of rollover accidents. These crashes can involve cars, SUVs, and trucks, all of which become harder to control when the driver’s judgment or coordination is affected.
Alcohol or drug use can increase speeding, poor reaction times, and overcorrection. When a vehicle with a high center of gravity swerves sharply, the risk of rolling over rises significantly. But also, driving impairment raises several risks:
- Weakened grip on the wheel and poor balance
- Delayed response to road hazards or other vehicles
- Loss of control when making turns or avoiding debris
- Increased chance of hitting a curb, pothole, or embankment
Victims of impaired driving crashes may face long-term medical expenses, emotional and psychological trauma, and time away from work. When a family suffers a fatal loss in a rollover, they may also deal with funeral costs and long-term financial burdens.
2. Influence of Road Conditions
Poor road conditions can play a major role in rollover crashes. Uneven surfaces, potholes, and unexpected curves can cause a driver to lose control. Wet or icy roads also reduce tire grip, making it harder to keep balance while turning.
Drivers may overcorrect when sliding or swerving, especially during rain or snow. That overcorrection can lead to a rollover, even in a single-car crash.
These are some of the road conditions that may contribute to a rollover accident:
- Potholes, standing water, or ice
- Poor visibility during rain or storms
- Road design that includes sharp curves or narrow shoulders
- Loose road debris or construction hazards
When a rollover occurs due to unsafe road conditions, injured victims may deal with broken bones, head injuries, or internal damage. The crash may also lead to major vehicle damage and require time off work or rehabilitation.
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3. Road Rage and Other Driver Negligence
Speeding, aggressive lane changes, or unsafe tailgating are common signs of road rage. Negligent driving includes texting, distracted driving, and failure to yield. These actions can force others to swerve or brake suddenly. When that happens near curves or in traffic, a rollover crash may occur.
Examples of negligent driving that can lead to rollovers include:
- Distracted driving (e.g., phone use or eating behind the wheel)
- Aggressive lane changes or speeding in poor conditions
- Driving while tired, angry, or under stress
- Failing to yield, ignoring road signs, or unsafe merging
If another driver’s actions caused a vehicle rollover, victims may pursue compensation for injuries, property damage, or lost wages. Photos of the scene, police reports, and witness statements can help support the claim.
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Consult a Rollover Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a vehicle rollover, The Thumbs Up Guys at Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward can help you understand your rights and legal options. Medical bills, emotional suffering, and property damage can be overwhelming.
A rollover accident lawyer in Charleston can help with accident reconstruction, seeking compensation, and explain the legal process after a car accident. Acting in a timely manner protects your ability to build a strong claim. Contact our team today and let us support your legal case.
Call or text (843) 380-8350 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
