Oklahoma Car Accident Injury Law Library TOPIC: SUV Rollovers

Due to their size and weight, Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) rollover accidents are some of the most fatal car accidents that occur in Oklahoma. SUVs are more prone to rollover than other types of vehicles for a number of reasons, including:

• A higher center of gravity
• Inadequate roll protection
• Heavier weight loads

These and other factors can cause an SUV to tip and roll over even in minor collisions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, passengers and drivers in SUV rollover accidents are 36% more likely to suffer catastrophic injury. More troubling still, most SUV rollovers are single vehicle accidents, and over 82% of deaths in single vehicle accidents are caused by rollovers.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently conducted a study in which they discovered that SUV manufacturers who lowered their vehicles’ height by half an inch reduced instances of rollover accidents by over 50%. This same study found that SUV manufacturers who installed simple impact absorbing bars below the bumper and internal rollover bars in the roof of an SUV substantially decreased the number of catastrophic injuries and death caused by rollover accidents.

Vehicle manufacturers who refuse to install simple life-saving features in their SUV models should be held accountable for negligence. Oklahoma City car accident attorney James Self is experienced in aggressively pursuing justice for victims of SUV rollover accidents. Our firm can help you secure the compensation you need to make a full recovery from your injuries.

If you have been injured in a SUV rollover accident in the state of Oklahoma, please contact Self & Associates today to schedule a free initial consultation.