In 2022, 7,418 vehicle occupants died in rollover accidents. While this number may seem small compared to the total fatalities (42,514), it still represents a significant percentage.
What are the odds of surviving a rollover car accident? In this article, we will discuss rollover accident data and what you need to know about this type of accident.
The Odds of Surviving a Rollover Car Accident
Rollover accidents, while less frequent than other collisions, have a higher fatality rate. In fact, rollover accidents account for 29% of all vehicle fatalities in the United States.
The odds of survival, in part, depend on the type of vehicle you are driving. Here, we will break down the numbers a little more. In 2022, single-vehicle rollover crashes accounted for the following percentage of deaths by vehicle type:
- 17% in cars
- 30% in pickups
- 26% in SUVs
When you factor in multiple vehicle accidents, the percentages change even more:
- 21% in cars
- 39% in pickups
- 37% in SUVs
Factors Impacting Survival Rates
Knowing you can survive a rollover accident is excellent, but what dictates rollover crash survival rates? Surviving a rollover accident often hinges on several key factors.
We will touch on the following three:
- Seatbelt usage
- Speed
- Vehicle type and design
Seatbelt Usage
Statistics show that those who buckle up are significantly less likely to be ejected from their vehicles during a crash, which can drastically increase survival rates. Buckling up in a passenger car can increase your survival rate by 45% and reduce the risk of moderate to critical injuries by 50%.
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve your odds of surviving a rollover car accident.
Vehicle Type and Design
Taller vehicles like SUVs and vans have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to tipping over. Conversely, lower-profile cars tend to maintain stability during sudden maneuvers.
However, keep in mind that these vehicles have become safer over the years. Modern cars often include advanced safety features designed for improved crashworthiness. These innovations can help reduce the likelihood of rollovers and protect occupants if an accident occurs.
Speed
Higher speeds increase the force of impact and make your vehicle more likely to flip. When cars travel quickly, even minor collisions can have significant consequences.
Driving at lower speeds generally gives you better control over the vehicle and allows for quicker reactions to avoid obstacles or sudden stops.
Improving Rollover Survival Chances
With the risk of dying in a rollover accident, what can you do to reduce it?
Proper Seatbelt Use
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve your odds of surviving a rollover car accident. It keeps you securely in place, preventing ejection from the vehicle during a crash. Make sure it fits snugly across your lap and chest for maximum protection.
In addition, do not forget about passengers! Everyone in the vehicle should buckle up.
Choosing Vehicles With Good Safety Ratings
Choosing cars that have received high marks from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) can make all the difference.
These vehicles are designed with advanced safety features and crashworthiness in mind. Investing in a safer model provides peace of mind and could also protect you and your passengers.
Avoiding Risky Driving Behaviors
The most effective step you can take is to do everything in your power to prevent this type of accident from happening.
Speeding, distracted driving, and aggressive maneuvers put you and your passengers at higher risk. Staying focused on the road and avoiding distractions like texting or fiddling with the radio is essential.
Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles is just as important. Tailgating or weaving in and out of lanes can lead to dangerous situations. Practice patience behind the wheel.
What to Do If Your Vehicle Starts to Roll
Avoiding an accident is not always possible. However, knowing what to do when a car accident happens can help.
Stay Calm and Brace Yourself
If your vehicle starts to roll, the first thing you should do is stay calm. Panic can cloud your judgment and make it harder to respond effectively. Take a deep breath and focus on what is happening around you.
Next, brace yourself for impact. Lean back into your seat and cross your arms over your chest. This will help stabilize your body during the rollover and minimize potential injuries.
Remain Inside Your Vehicle
Although it may be tempting to try and escape your vehicle, it is safest to stay inside until the rollover has come to a complete stop. Trying to exit a car while it is still rolling could result in serious injuries or death.
If you have passengers with you, encourage them to do the same by calmly instructing them to remain seated and wait for the rollover to end.
Turn Off the Ignition
As soon as you can, turn off the ignition. This will prevent any further damage to your vehicle’s engine and fuel system. It will also disable any electrical systems that could start a fire.
Assess Injuries
Once your vehicle has stopped, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Do not move an injured person unless that person is in immediate danger from fire or another threat.
If there are no apparent injuries, carefully unbuckle your seatbelt and assist other passengers with theirs. Then, slowly exit the vehicle through one of the doors if possible.
Call the Police
Even if there are no apparent injuries, call the police and report the accident. They will send an officer to the scene to file a report and handle traffic control until your vehicle can be moved out of the roadway.
Schedule a Consultation With Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC
Knowing the odds of surviving a rollover car accident can help you be prepared. We are here to support you if you have been in an accident.
Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC has been part of the Virginia Beach community since 1955. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will advocate for you. Schedule a free consultation today.