When drivers lose control of their vehicles, there is always the potential for the car to turn sideways, flip, and roll. This can lead to debilitating injuries not only for the occupants of the vehicle but also for anyone in their path as well.
If you have been hurt in a rollover car accident in Chicago, now is the time to explore your legal options. The experienced car wreck injury attorneys of Schlack & Bassmaji are ready to provide you with bilingual support during every phase of the injury claim process. Contact us today to begin fighting for the compensation you need to continue supporting your family.
In Chicago, rollover car accidents occur when a vehicle tips onto its side or flips completely onto its roof. These accidents are especially dangerous, as the roof of a vehicle is not designed to absorb as much of an impact as the front or sides. These crashes often occur on highways, curved roads, or in situations where a driver loses control at higher speeds, but they can happen virtually anywhere.
Rollovers can be classified as “tripped” or “untripped.” A tripped rollover happens when a vehicle strikes an object such as a curb, guardrail, or soft shoulder, causing it to flip. An untripped rollover typically involves sharp steering maneuvers or excessive speed that destabilizes the vehicle without outside contact. Vehicles with a higher center of gravity, such as SUVs, are more prone to rolling over, but any vehicle can be involved under the right conditions.
Rollover car crashes in Chicago usually result from a variety of factors, from driver error to mechanical defects. Some of the most common issues include the following.
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to maintain control, especially when navigating curves or making sudden corrections. Higher speeds also increase the force that contributes to a vehicle tipping over.
Abrupt turns or changes in direction can shift the vehicle’s weight quickly, causing a driver to lose control. Overcorrecting after drifting out of a lane or onto a shoulder is a common trigger for rollovers.
Uneven pavement, debris, potholes, and soft shoulders can destabilize a vehicle. When a tire catches on an edge or drops suddenly, it can act as a pivot point that leads to a rollover.
Some accidents have nothing to do with the actions of the drivers. For example, a rollover crash can happen when tires or braking systems fail. Vehicles that are top-heavy due to poor design can also lead to a dangerous crash.
Rollover crashes tend to cause more severe injuries than many other types of collisions. The violent motion of the vehicle, combined with multiple impacts, increases the likelihood of serious harm. Occupants may strike the interior of the vehicle more than once, and in some cases, individuals can be partially or fully ejected if seat belts are not used or fail.
The roof structure may also collapse during a rollover, leading to crushing injuries. Even when the vehicle’s safety systems function properly, the forces involved can place extreme stress on the body. As a result, these crashes often lead to long-term or permanent injuries. Some catastrophic injuries that are common in a rollover include the following:
Because of the severity of these injuries, it is crucial to seek medical care as soon as possible.
Rollover car accidents in Chicago have the potential to cause life-changing injuries. If you or your loved one has been hurt, contact our team as soon as possible for your private consultation.
