DON'T LET YOUR VEHICLE FLIP THE SCRIPT

EJECTIONS 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that rollovers are especially deadly because occupants are at high risk of being ejected from the vehicle. People can also be crushed by the vehicle, thrown against objects, or injured if the roof collapses. NHTSA notes that the risk of ejection is much higher in rollover crashes than in other types of collisions.

Wearing a safety belt significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in a rollover. While seat belts are effective in all crashes, NHTSA estimates they are particularly protective in rollovers, helping prevent ejection and reducing the severity of injuries.

SMALL SUVs ARE PRONE TO ROLLING

Utility vehicles are more prone to rollovers than passenger cars because they are designed for off-road terrain. Factors such as a relatively short wheelbase, narrow track width, and high center of gravity contribute to instability. The most common type of rollover occurs when a vehicle leaves the roadway and the outside wheels dig into soft or uneven ground. Attempting to quickly steer back onto the road can easily cause the vehicle to tip.

Rollovers can also happen when drivers take sharp curves too quickly, are struck on the side by another vehicle, drive onto a curb, or swerve suddenly to avoid a hazard.

DRIVING BEHAVIOR

How you drive is the biggest factor influencing rollovers. Avoid speeding, never drink and drive, and be cautious at all times. Sudden maneuvers—such as quickly jerking the steering wheel—can easily cause a rollover, especially at higher speeds. Take curves slowly, and familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s handling characteristics.

Speed and alcohol significantly increase rollover risk. Drivers who exceed safe speeds or operate a vehicle under the influence are far more likely to be involved in a rollover crash.

Young, less-experienced drivers are particularly at risk. They may be more inclined to speed, drive aggressively, or operate rollover-prone vehicles such as SUVs. These crashes often involve multiple passengers, highlighting the importance of safe driving habits for everyone in the vehicle.

HOW TO CORRECT A ROLL OVER

If, despite careful driving, your vehicle begins to leave the road or tip, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of a rollover. If your wheels go onto a soft shoulder, avoid quickly turning the steering wheel back toward the roadway, which can cause the vehicle to roll. Instead, gently steer back onto the road with a slow, controlled turn.

If your vehicle begins to skid, ease off the accelerator. For a rear-wheel slide, steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go. In sudden emergencies, such as an unexpected obstacle in your path, there may be limited options. If the vehicle begins to tip, steering slightly toward the tipping direction can help regain control and keep all four wheels on the pavement.

Above all, safe driving habits, caution, and a clear head are the best defenses against rollovers and other serious crashes.