At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we have extensive experience helping car accident victims protect their rights after being harmed. Contact our law firm now to schedule a free consultation.
Common Causes of Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents are some of the most dangerous crashes on the road, often leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. Unlike a typical fender bender, these crashes happen suddenly, leaving little time for drivers to react. Understanding what causes rollovers can help prevent them and determine who may be responsible when they occur. Several factors contribute to these accidents, and in many cases, more than one party could be at fault.
High-Speed Turns
Taking a sharp turn at high speeds can quickly cause a vehicle to tip over, especially if the driver overcorrects or swerves too hard. This is particularly dangerous for SUVs, trucks, and vans, which have a higher center of gravity and are more prone to flipping. Drivers who aren’t familiar with a vehicle’s handling or don’t slow down properly when turning can easily lose control. Speed limit signs and warning markers help guide drivers, but when these are ignored, the risk of a rollover car accident increases significantly.
Tire Blowouts
A sudden tire failure can make a driver lose control in an instant, causing the vehicle to swerve and roll over. Blowouts often happen due to worn-out tires, improper inflation, or manufacturing defects. When a front tire bursts, the vehicle may veer sharply, while a rear tire blowout can make it fishtail and flip. In some cases, poorly maintained roads with debris or potholes can trigger a blowout, making it unclear whether the tire manufacturer or the city should be held responsible.
Driver Negligence
Distracted, impaired, or reckless driving plays a major role in many rollover accidents. A driver who is texting, under the influence of alcohol, or speeding is more likely to make erratic moves that can lead to a rollover. For example, swerving suddenly to avoid an obstacle or cutting across lanes too quickly can destabilize a vehicle. Even if another driver doesn’t hit you directly, their dangerous behavior may force you into a situation where a rollover is unavoidable.
Poor Road Conditions
Uneven roads, potholes, slick surfaces, and missing guardrails can all contribute to a rollover crash. When roads are not properly maintained, drivers can unexpectedly hit bumps or drop-offs that throw their vehicles off balance. Rain, snow, and ice make conditions even worse, making it easier to lose control.
Vehicle Defects
Some cars have design flaws that make them more likely to roll over in certain situations. SUVs and trucks, in particular, are sometimes built with a narrow wheelbase and a higher center of gravity, making them unstable on sharp turns or uneven terrain. If a vehicle’s suspension, brakes, or electronic stability control systems fail, the driver may not be able to prevent a rollover. In these cases, the car manufacturer could be responsible for producing a vehicle that was not safe under normal driving conditions.
If your accident was caused by another driver’s recklessness, a defective vehicle, or dangerous road conditions, you shouldn’t have to deal with the consequences alone. A rollover car accident attorney in St. Cloud, MN, can help determine who is at fault and fight for the compensation you deserve. Holding the responsible party accountable not only helps you recover but also prevents similar accidents from happening to others in the future.
Injuries Common in Rollover Accidents
Because rollovers involve violent motion and force, the injuries can be serious, including:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to lasting cognitive issues.
- Spinal Cord Damage: Severe cases may result in paralysis.
- Broken Bones: Fractures, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs, are common.
- Internal Injuries: Organs can be damaged due to impact or being crushed.
- Cuts and Bruises: Flying debris or shattered glass can cause lacerations and other wounds.
A St. Cloud auto accident lawyer can work with medical experts to document your injuries and calculate the compensation you need for medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages.
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Who is Liable in a Rollover Crash?
Rollover accidents can be terrifying, leaving victims with severe injuries, high medical bills, and uncertainty about what to do next. Figuring out who is responsible for the crash is crucial in pursuing compensation. Unlike a typical collision, multiple parties could be at fault, and an in-depth investigation is often required.
Another Driver
If another driver acted negligently, they could be responsible for your rollover crash. Speeding, swerving into your lane, or making an illegal turn can force you to lose control of your vehicle. Some accidents happen because a driver was distracted by their phone or under the influence of alcohol, increasing the risk of reckless driving. Even if their car didn’t make direct contact with yours, their actions could still be the reason you crashed. Proving fault often requires witness statements, traffic camera footage, or accident reconstruction experts.
Car Manufacturer
A vehicle’s design or mechanical defects can also contribute to a rollover accident. SUVs and trucks with higher centers of gravity are more prone to tipping, and if a manufacturer failed to address stability issues, they may be liable. Additionally, defective brakes, tires, or steering components can cause a driver to lose control, leading to a crash. If the vehicle manufacturer knew about these risks but failed to issue a recall, they could be held accountable for the accident. A skilled attorney can investigate whether faulty parts or poor design played a role in your rollover.
Since rollover accidents often have multiple contributing factors, it’s essential to have a legal team that understands how to build a strong case. A St. Cloud rollover car accident lawyer can gather the necessary evidence to determine who is responsible and fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether another driver, a manufacturer, or a government agency is at fault, holding them accountable can help you recover and prevent similar accidents in the future.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
- Medical Expenses
- Long-Term Care Costs
- Lost Wages
- Lost Earning Potential
- Loss of Quality of Life
- Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress
- Loss of Consortium
A rollover crash attorney near me can help assess your damages and negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
Why Choose Nelson Personal Injury, LLC?
At Nelson Personal Injury, we’re more than just attorneys—we’re a family dedicated to helping yours. Founded in 1995 by Timothy W. Nelson and later joined by his son, Matthew J. Nelson, our firm brings two generations of experience and commitment to personal injury law.
Our no-win, no-fee rollover car accident lawyer in St. Cloud has helped thousands of clients recover millions in compensation, handling everything from car and truck accidents to dog bites and slip-and-falls. With insider knowledge of insurance company tactics and a strong track record of success, we fight to get you the best outcome. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By a Rollover Car Accident Lawyer in St. Cloud
How long do I have to file a claim after a rollover accident in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible—important evidence can be lost or harder to collect over time, and some exceptions may apply based on your situation.
What should I do immediately after a rollover accident?
Your health and safety come first. Call 911, seek medical attention, and move to a safe location if you can. If possible, take photos of the scene, get witness contact information, and avoid admitting fault. Then, consult a car accident attorney before speaking with any insurance adjusters.
Can a rollover accident happen without another car being involved?
Yes. Single-vehicle rollovers are common and can result from tire blowouts, poor road conditions, or vehicle design flaws. Even if no other driver was directly involved, you may still be eligible for compensation from a manufacturer, municipality, or other third party.
What if the insurance company says I was at fault?
Don’t accept blame without legal advice. Insurance companies often try to reduce or deny claims to protect their bottom line. A qualified attorney can review your case, investigate the true cause of the rollover, and fight back against unfair fault allegations.
Does vehicle type affect my chances of rolling over?
Yes. SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans are more likely to roll over due to their higher center of gravity. Even within those categories, some models are more prone to tipping than others. If your vehicle had a known rollover risk, the manufacturer may share responsibility.
Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
Possibly. While not wearing a seatbelt can affect your compensation, it does not automatically prevent you from filing a claim. Minnesota follows a comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation could be reduced—but not necessarily eliminated—based on your percentage of fault.
How much does it cost to hire a rollover accident attorney?
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we recover compensation for you. Your initial consultation is free, and we’re here to answer your questions and guide you forward.
Contact Our St. Cloud Rollover Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rollover accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you act, the better your chances of securing fair compensation. Contact Nelson Personal Injury, LLC today for a free consultation. Let our top-rated rollover car accident lawyer in St. Cloud fight for your rights and help you move forward with confidence.
