Understanding Head-On Collisions and Rollover Accidents
All car accidents can lead to serious injuries and even death, but some are more likely to end up this way than others. Statistically, only 2.1% of car crashes lead to a vehicle rollover, but these kinds of accidents account for 35% of all passenger vehicle fatalities. Similarly, U.S. statistics show that head-on collisions account for only 2.0% of accidents but make up 10.1% of fatal crashes.
Head-On Collisions
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS):
“Frontal impacts accounted for 56 percent of passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2018.”
These crashes occur when the front of 1 vehicle collides with the front of another. They tend to happen when a driver is driving on the wrong side of the road, trying to pass a slower vehicle, or drifting out of their lane (and across the center divider). The results of a head-on crash between 2 vehicles traveling 50 mph are equivalent to what would happen if a car ran into a fixed object going 100 mph. This significant force typically leads to serious injuries and/or fatalities. If passenger vehicle occupants are not wearing seatbelts, they can be ejected from the vehicle.
Rollover Accidents
A total of 6,583 people died in rollover crashes in 2018, representing nearly 30% of the year’s fatal passenger vehicle accidents. In 2017, rollovers caused 2,750 fatal crashes and made up 8% of the year’s fatal collisions.
Rollover crashes occur anytime a vehicle tips onto its side or roof during the crash. Sometimes, rollovers happen after a collision, but other times, they happen independently. Faulty vehicle design occasionally causes or contributes to rollover accidents, but speed and/or alcohol is involved in many rollover crashes.
Because rollovers often occur after a vehicle leaves the roadway, drivers and passengers can be ejected from the vehicle. This is especially true if the occupants are not wearing seatbelts.
Getting Help After a Dangerous Accident
Head-on collisions and rollover accidents are frequently caused by negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a head-on or rollover crash, Foley Griffin can help you recover.
Our Nassau County car accident attorneys have over 75 years of collective experience, and we want to help you access the resources you need after serious injuries or tragic losses.
Call us at (888) 966-8480 and tell us what happened today or contact us online to set up your free consultation.
Remember, when the unthinkable happens, our firm is here for you.