There is never a good time for a car accident to occur, especially if you’re on a road trip. When you’re planning to head out on your journey, no matter the vehicle you’re driving, it’s always best to have it inspected and maintained to make sure it’s ready for the road ahead.
A rollover crash might be one of the scariest occurrences, and knowing the factors of what can cause them can keep you safe on your adventure. Read on to learn more about the highest rollover risk vehicles.
What Factors Put You at Risk for a Rollover Crash?
Take a look at the factors that can put you at a greater risk for a rollover accident on your road trip:
Vehicle Center of Gravity
Any vehicle that has a higher center of gravity will have a greater chance of rolling over in an accident. The higher center of gravity makes it more unstable and more likely to tip during sudden maneuvers or sharp turns.
Weight Distribution
Another factor, especially when you’re on a road trip, is the weight distribution of your vehicle. When you’re loading your car, you need to be careful of the way you add your luggage or recreational gear. Loading it more heavily on one side or even stacking it on top of your vehicle’s roof rack can make it more likely to roll over when you take a turn.
Speed
Naturally, if you’re going faster, you’re going to have a greater risk of rolling over in your vehicle, no matter the type. However, with a high center of gravity and poor weight distribution of your items, speed can more easily enhance your chances of this occurrence.
Reckless Driving Behaviors
Many people feel that a road trip is a great way to make the journey part of the fun. When drivers speed to make better time on the road, weave in and out of traffic, or make a sudden turn, it makes it more likely the vehicle could roll over.
Weather and Road Conditions
If you’re heading to a more remote destination with bumpy terrain, be even more cautious as you traverse the roads. Additionally, rain, ice, and snow can cause roads to become wet and slippery. These all may play a role in the way your vehicle can handle and may lead to a dangerous crash.
Mechanical Issues
The importance of maintaining your vehicle cannot be overstressed since faulty brakes, worn tires, and issues with suspension or steering can cause you to lose control.
Vehicles That Have a Greater Risk for Rollovers
It should be noted that a rollover can happen in any kind of vehicle, especially when the factors listed above are present. However, the type of vehicle you drive can play a role as well, and exercising caution behind the wheel is best for preventing these accidents.
Which vehicles are at greater risk of rolling over on the road?
SUVs and Pickup Trucks
Both SUVs and pickup trucks have a higher center of gravity while also having greater ground clearance, giving them more ability to tip over when you take a sudden turn. With off-road packages, they will have different suspension and tires from other models, which can further contribute to rollovers on city streets.
Vans and Minivans
Passenger vans and minivans also have a higher center of gravity, which is problematic since they are often chosen for transporting more people. The risk of overloading and uneven weight distribution means that these vehicles can more easily roll over.
High-Performance Cars
While sedans and small coupes are less likely to tip over, anyone driving a high-performance sports car has a higher risk of rollover crashes. Racing these finely-tuned machines to their top speeds while engaging in aggressive driving behaviors is often a factor that causes these sporty vehicles to flip.
Reducing Your Risks for Rollover Accidents While on Your Road Trip
Whether you are taking your own vehicle or renting something for the occasion, you can take a few actions to reduce your risks of a rollover accident.
Follow Traffic Laws
Even if you’re driving over state lines, most states have the same basic traffic laws. It is smart to obey the posted speed limit and pay attention while behind the wheel to avoid having to make sudden maneuvers.
Load Your Vehicle Properly
When packing your luggage or any camping or recreation gear, make sure that you distribute the weight evenly throughout the trunk or on the roof rack. Avoid overloading your vehicle, especially on one side or on top of the car to keep it balanced on the road.
Slow Down in Inclement Weather
Before heading off on your road trip, check out the weather on the way to your destination. This will help you have an idea of what to expect, whether it’s rain, snow, fog, or ice. Even if these conditions suddenly arise, slowing down to a safe speed even if it is below the posted speed limit, can help you prevent a rollover accident.
Take Care of Your Vehicle
If you’re renting a vehicle for your road trip, it should have been inspected by the rental company. You can also take a quick look at the tires and make sure they look good. As for your own vehicle, have it serviced before you take your road trip. You’ll have greater peace of mind behind the wheel when you know your tires and brakes are road-ready and be less likely to have mechanical issues that could contribute to a serious crash.
Know What to Do in the Event of an Accident
Whether it’s a rollover accident, a fender bender, or any other type of crash, you should know the steps to take in the aftermath. Make sure you call the local police in the area and report the accident. You’ll also want to take photos and videos, get the insurance and contact information from the other driver, and seek medical attention.
It may not be ideal to stop by the hospital during your vacation, but you might have hidden injuries. If you are hurt, you should contact a personal injury attorney to get help with your injury claim.
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