Chicago Rollover Accident Lawyer

What Is a Rollover Accident?

A rollover accident happens when a vehicle tips over onto its side or flips completely onto its roof. These crashes are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injuries or death. Some rollover accidents involve a single vehicle, while others happen due to collisions with another car or object.

Certain vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, have a higher risk of rolling over because of their high center of gravity. Speeding, reckless driving, and poor road conditions can also increase the chances of a rollover crash.

Victims of car accident injuries in Chicago may face expensive medical bills, long-term pain, and lost wages. If someone else caused the crash, you may be able to file a car accident claim. A Chicago car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and secure compensation for your losses.

Common Causes of Rollover Accidents

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Driving too fast reduces a driver’s ability to control a vehicle, especially when making turns. At high speeds, the risk of losing control increases, making it harder to stop or react in time. When a driver takes a sharp turn too fast, the force can cause the vehicle to tip over, especially if it is top-heavy.

Reckless driving also plays a major role in rollover accidents. Actions like aggressive lane changes, tailgating, and weaving through traffic increase the likelihood of a crash. Swerving too suddenly or slamming on the brakes can throw the vehicle off balance.

Speeding is particularly dangerous for SUVs, trucks, and vans, as their high center of gravity makes them more prone to rolling over. When these vehicles take a curve at high speeds, they may not stay upright. Car accident victims injured by reckless drivers may have the right to seek fair compensation for their losses.

Vehicle Design Flaws (SUVs, Trucks, and Top-Heavy Vehicles)

Certain vehicles, such as SUVs, pickup trucks, and large vans, have a higher risk of rollovers due to their tall and narrow design. These vehicles have a high center of gravity, making them less stable than smaller cars. If they turn too fast or hit an object, they can tip over.

Older SUVs and trucks may lack stability control systems, increasing the risk of an accident. Even modern stability features cannot always prevent a rollover if the driver makes a sudden move or if road conditions are bad.

Manufacturing defects can also contribute to rollover accidents. Some vehicles have weak roof structures, making rollovers even more dangerous. When a vehicle flips, a weak roof can collapse, causing serious injuries to passengers.

If a rollover accident happens due to vehicle design flaws, the car accident lawyer can help victims file a claim against the manufacturer or another responsible party.

Tire Blowouts and Mechanical Failures

A tire blowout can instantly make a driver lose control, leading to a serious rollover accident. When a tire suddenly bursts, it can cause the vehicle to swerve uncontrollably. If this happens at high speeds, the car may flip over, especially if it is an SUV or truck.

Mechanical failures, such as faulty brakes, power steering failure, or suspension issues, can also increase the risk of a rollover accident. If a driver cannot steer properly or the brakes fail, they may crash into another vehicle or an object, causing the car to tip over.

Poor maintenance is a major factor in these crashes. Some drivers fail to replace old tires or ignore warning signs of mechanical issues. In other cases, auto manufacturers or repair shops may be responsible if defective parts or improper maintenance contribute to an accident. Victims may be able to file a car accident lawsuit to recover damages.

Poor Road Conditions and Weather Factors

Slippery roads from rain, snow, or ice can make vehicles lose traction, increasing the chances of a rollover accident. If a driver hits a patch of ice or drives too fast in wet conditions, their vehicle may skid and flip over.

Uneven pavement and poorly maintained roads also contribute to rollovers. Large potholes, loose gravel, or road debris can cause a driver to lose control. If a car’s wheels hit an obstacle at the wrong angle, the vehicle may tip over.

Strong crosswinds can also be dangerous, especially for top-heavy vehicles like SUVs and trucks. If a driver does not keep a firm grip on the wheel, the wind can push the vehicle off balance.

If a government agency fails to maintain safe road conditions, it may be held liable for a rollover accident. A car accident attorney can investigate whether poor road maintenance played a role in the crash.

Collisions with Other Vehicles or Objects

One of the most common causes of rollover accidents is impact with another vehicle. A high-speed crash can cause a car to tip over, especially if it gets hit on the side. T-bone accidents, where one car slams into another at an intersection, can lead to rollovers.

Some rollovers occur when a driver swerves to avoid a crash but loses control. If a car hits a guardrail, curb, or median, it may flip over. Vehicles with a higher center of gravity, like SUVs and trucks, are more likely to roll after a crash.

In some cases, a negligent driver may force another car off the road, leading to a rollover accident. If the at-fault driver was speeding, distracted, or under the influence, they could be held liable. Victims of these crashes may file a car accident claim to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Types of Rollover Accidents

• Tripped rollovers – These occur when a vehicle’s tires hit an object — such as a curb, pothole, or guardrail — causing the vehicle to tip over. Most rollover accidents fall into this category.
• Untripped rollovers – These happen when a driver makes a sharp turn or swerves too hard, causing the car to roll without hitting another object. High-speed maneuvers and top-heavy vehicles are common factors.
• Multi-vehicle rollovers – These occur when another vehicle collides with a car, causing it to roll over. Side-impact crashes, especially at intersections, often lead to these accidents.
• Steep slope rollovers – Vehicles that drive too close to a steep edge, such as an embankment, may tip over due to the angle of the ground. This often happens in rural areas or near construction zones.
• Defective vehicle rollovers – A vehicle defect, such as faulty tires, brake failure, or steering issues, can cause the driver to lose control, leading to a rollover accident.

Injuries and Damages in Rollover Accidents

Common Injuries Victims Suffer

• Head and brain injuries – Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), skull fractures, and concussions are common due to forceful impact on the roof or windows.
• Spinal cord injuries – Rollovers can lead to spinal fractures, herniated discs, or paralysis, depending on the severity of the crash.
• Broken bones – Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are often fractured when passengers hit the car’s interior or are ejected.
• Internal organ damage – Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or ruptured organs, requiring immediate medical care.
• Lacerations and burns – Glass shards, metal fragments, and vehicle fires can cause deep cuts and burns.
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries – The force of rolling over can cause severe strain on the neck, shoulders, and back.

Financial and Emotional Impact

A rollover accident can lead to significant financial strain due to medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs. Victims often need emergency care, surgeries, and long-term physical therapy, increasing medical expenses. Some may suffer permanent disabilities, affecting their ability to work and earn income.

Beyond financial losses, the emotional effect can be severe. Many accident victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression after a traumatic crash. The fear of driving again is common, especially if the accident involves high speeds or a violent rollover accident.

Pain and suffering damages may be available for victims who endure long-term physical pain and emotional distress. A car accident lawyer can help secure compensation for these losses, ensuring victims receive fair compensation for their injuries and hardships.

How a Chicago Rollover Accident Lawyer Can Help

A Chicago rollover accident lawyer helps victims understand their legal options and fight for fair compensation. Here’s how a Chicago rollover accident lawyer can help:

Investigating the Accident

A thorough investigation is essential to prove fault in a rollover accident. A Chicago car accident lawyer will collect relevant evidence, including police reports, eyewitness statements, and video footage from traffic cameras. They may also consult accident reconstruction experts to analyze the cause of the crash.

If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, they will examine maintenance records, recall reports, and manufacturer details. In cases of poor road conditions, they may hold local authorities or construction companies accountable.

By conducting a detailed investigation, the lawyer ensures that all responsible parties are identified, helping the victim build a strong case for compensation.

Proving Liability in a Rollover Case

To recover damages, the victim must prove liability. A Chicago car accident attorney will determine whether the driver, vehicle manufacturer, or another party is responsible. They will use black box data, crash reports, and expert analysis to establish fault.

If another driver caused the rollover, the lawyer will gather traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reconstructions to show negligence. If a tire blowout or mechanical failure played a role, they may file a product liability lawsuit against the vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier.

For rollovers caused by unsafe road conditions, the lawyer may prove that the city or a construction company failed to maintain the roads properly. By presenting strong evidence, they can help victims recover fair compensation for their injuries and losses.

Securing Compensation for Victims

A Chicago rollover accident lawyer fights to recover maximum compensation for victims. They help claim damages for medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repairs, and pain and suffering.

Victims may receive economic damages for hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and rehabilitation costs. If the injury prevents them from working, they may be entitled to compensation for lost income and future earnings.

Non-economic damages cover emotional distress, PTSD, and reduced quality of life caused by the accident. In cases of gross negligence, victims may also receive punitive damages to punish the responsible party.

A skilled car accident lawyer will negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. If they refuse to offer adequate compensation, the lawyer can take the case to court to fight for the victim’s rights.

Steps to Take After a Rollover Accident

Immediate Actions at the Scene

After a rollover accident, safety comes first. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further injury. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, getting medical attention is essential.

While waiting for emergency responders, gather important details. Take photos and videos of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and traffic signs. If there are witnesses, get their contact information. Their statements may help support your insurance claim or lawsuit.

Avoid admitting fault when speaking to police or other drivers. Stick to facts when giving a report. Once the police arrive, request a copy of the accident report, as it will be valuable evidence in your case.

Seeking Legal Assistance

After receiving medical treatment, contact a Chicago rollover accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced car accident attorney can help determine liability, gather evidence, and handle insurance claims.

Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts or deny claims. A lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If needed, they can file a lawsuit to hold the responsible party accountable.

Legal deadlines apply to personal injury cases in Illinois. If you wait too long, you may lose the chance to seek compensation. A lawyer will ensure all documents are filed correctly and within the statute of limitations.

Having an attorney protects your rights and increases your chances of receiving maximum compensation after a rollover accident.

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Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers fights for accident victims. Our legal team understands the challenges of filing a Chicago car accident claim and will guide you every step of the way. We investigate accidents, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.

Time is limited to file a claim, so don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.