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A sport utility vehicle, also known as an SUV, is three times as likely to be involved in a rollover as the average passenger vehicle. The highest rate of deaths resulting from rollover accidents are in SUVs.

Originally, the SUV was created for off-road driving and was not designed as a family car, which it is commonly known as today. Since the target market for SUVs has changed, manufacturers have stopped installing the roll bars that protect the occupants in the vehicle in case of a rollover crash. Now when an SUV rolls over, it often results in devastating injuries and sometimes death.

There are many theories as to why SUVs rollover more easily than other vehicles. The size and height of the vehicle plays a significant role in the rollover risk. Speeding has been a major factor in many rollover accidents. Studies have shown that almost two-thirds of rollover accidents occur in a driving zone where the speed limit is 55 miles per hour or higher.

Driver distraction and inattention is also believed to be a cause of rollover accidents. Numerous rollovers take place after a driver steers hard to avoid a foreseeable danger. The SUV frequently loses control when a driver overcompensates, which initiates the rollover. Once the SUV is off the pavement, a ditch, soft soil or other factor can contribute to the rollover accident.

Some SUV rollovers are due to manufacturing defects. A few years ago, Toyota Motor Corp. recalled 880,000 SUVs and pickup trucks after it detected a serious defect that could impact steering. Other vehicles, such as the Ford Explorer, Isuzu Rodeo and Honda Passport have also been involved in rollover accidents that resulted in serious injuries and death.

If you have been injured in a rollover accident, contact the Massachusetts car accident attorneys at Thomas M. Kiley & Associates at (800) 930-8145. We can help you determine the cause of your rollover accident and if any legal action should be taken.

The article, SUV Rollover Accidents – Causes & Prevention, has more information on this subject.

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