What Are the 4 Most Common Causes of Truck Rollover Wrecks?

According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, rollover accidents are more likely to result in fatalities than any other kind of crash. Truck rollover wrecks are especially dangerous because 18-wheelers are so much larger than passenger cars, and they can cause significant damage when they roll on top of other vehicles.

If you or someone you love was involved in a truck rollover crash and you want to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, and non-economic damages, turn to the experienced legal team at the Cooper Law Firm. Attorney N. Eric Cooper provides quality legal representation to personal injury victims throughout east Texas. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with a truck accident attorney in Dallas.

Let’s explore a few of the most common causes of truck rollover accidents:

1. Speeding

Breaking the speed limit may not be a leading cause of truck rollover accidents, but failing to adjust speed when approaching curves and on-ramps certainly is. According to the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine, nearly half of the rollover collisions in the review’s sample occurred because the trucker failed to adjust the truck’s speed accordingly.

Although you have no control over a truck’s speed, you can still use this information to your advantage as a motorist. Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and any surrounding trucks, especially when approaching curves, on-ramps, or off-ramps.

2. Driver Inattention

Inattention is another common cause of serious rollover accidents. Both distracted driving and drowsy driving can force a trucker to make a sudden turn, which can result in a devastating rollover crash. There are federal regulations in place to prevent truckers from driving to the point of exhaustion, but unfortunately, not all truckers or transport companies abide by them.

Drowsy driving is a serious problem among passenger vehicle drivers, as well. According to the National Sleep Foundation, an estimated 100,000 collisions that police report annually occur as a result of driver fatigue.

3. Poor Steering

Steering a semi-truck is as much an art as it is a science. If the trucker over-steers, it could result in a rollover. Failing to steer enough, on the other hand, can lead to overcorrecting, which may also cause a rollover crash.

Beware of large trucks that appear to be drifting in and out of their lanes. This could be a sign that the driver is struggling to steer an appropriate amount and maintain control of the massive vehicle.

4. Unbalanced Loads

Trucks have a much higher center of gravity than passenger vehicles, and unbalanced loads can make them more susceptible to rolling over when turning. The transport company needs to ensure its workers load every truck in a safe, balanced manner.

If you were injured in a truck rollover crash, you may have a valid personal injury claim against the negligent trucker or trucking company. Turn to the Cooper Law Firm to discuss your case with a seasoned accident lawyer in Dallas.

Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation. You can learn more about truck accident lawsuits in Texas by visiting USAttorneys.com.