Rollovers kill around 300 truck drivers every year, but this represents only a fraction of truckers who die in accidents annually. Even the most experienced truck drivers can be victims of rollover accidents. This makes it especially risky for drivers today, as the tonnage transported across increasingly-dangerous roads increases every year. Find out what can cause rollovers and what to do if involved in one.
What Are Common Causes of Truck Rollovers?
Rollovers are rare, but some factors are commonly associated with them. It is very difficult for truck drivers to take precautions to mitigate them, and their safety on the roads is increasingly out of their own hands. Some of the risk factors are as follows.
Old Roads
Old, outdated roadways can cause rollovers, especially curves, many of which are over 40 years old in the United States. Many roads were built at a time when there was less congestion and were not designed to handle today’s traffic volume. Roads that are common sites of accidents are rarely updated and may only have a sign to warn drivers of the danger. Many roads also have potholes or need repaving and don’t receive the repair they need for the safe operation of large trucks.
Heavy Loads
Trucks can haul heavy loads, but even they have their limits, and when a trucking company tries to push past them, it can pose a significant threat to drivers. Loads that are too heavy can cause a truck to behave abnormally, especially during turns. Heavy loads present a rollover risk, especially when the weight gets distributed unevenly. During a sharp turn, the truck could jackknife and then flip, harming the driver and people in passing vehicles.
High Speeds
Truckers that are traveling at high speeds are at a greater risk of rollover. Drivers that face unrealistic time-tables could speed when trying to make a delivery, which is highly risky, especially with the additional dangers that drivers face on the road. The risk of rollover increases when drivers face inclement weather conditions. While they should be slowing down to account for the weather, in order to meet deadlines, they keep their feet on the gas.
Fatigue
Human error factors into many rollover accidents and the root cause in many cases is driver fatigue. Drivers facing tight schedules and long hours may not have the time to rest and instead are left to endure long shifts with little sleep or rest. Drivers must remain alert for dangers at all times on the road, yet reflexes become dulled when faced with exhaustion.
Companies with a history of working their drivers too much typically have higher accident and rollover rates as a result of their scheduling practices.
Can I Sue After a Truck Rollover?
After a rollover from a truck accident, you can sue the company involved in it to cover the expenses associated with your medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. Visit this website if you’d like to read a truck accident lawyer Q&A that will answer some of your questions about truck accident lawsuits. It’s vital to work with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to obtain the maximum value from your lawsuit or settlement.
A rollover can lead to permanent injury and even death for those involved, including truck drivers. Getting legal representation right away in the event of an accident is key to obtaining compensation for your damages. With the right help, victims of rollover accidents can get on the road to physical, emotional, and financial recovery.
