Collision Between SUV and Pickup Causes Both Vehicles to Rollover
Injuries occurred in an exit ramp rollover accident in Sacramento on March 14 after two vehicles collided. The collision occurred along State Route 51 southbound on the Arden Way eastbound exit ramp shortly after 2:00 in the afternoon, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). When a pickup and SUV crashed together, both vehicles experienced rollovers. The SUV rolled down an embankment, and the pickup reportedly overturned many times and ended up laying on its side. The Sacramento Fire Department was called to the scene to help subjects exit their vehicles and assess injuries. Tow trucks equipped with chains were required to upright and remove the vehicles from the accident scene. The CHP is conducting an investigation into the exit ramp rollover accident to find out how it happened and assign fault.
Dangers of a Rollover Accident
Rollovers are among the most dangerous types of accidents, and SUVs, light pickups and vans are commonly involved. Once the initial impact of a crash inflates the airbags, they deflate and provide no further protection. In addition, although seatbelts save many lives, they are really not designed for all types of collisions and can break during a rollover in some cases. This means the people inside may be tossed around and suffer serious injuries.
In some cases, a crushed roof can result in traumatic injuries. This occurs because the roof strength and that of supporting columns do not meet federal standards designed to make the roof strong enough to withstand 1.5 times the weight of the vehicle. Many car occupants are trapped inside the vehicle due to roof crush, necessitating the need for extrication techniques. Aside from roof crush injuries, other occupants are thrown from the vehicle, especially if they are not wearing seatbelts or there is a seatbelt defect. Rollover injuries can result in long hospitalization, rehabilitation, and recovery, as well as lost wages. A lawyer experienced in handling rollover and crushed roof accidents can help you obtain the compensation you deserve to cover all of those expenses and reimburse you for your pain and suffering.
Liability in a Rollover Accident
Automobile manufacturers are required to meet standards that prevent a roof from crushing if a rollover occurs. However, not all manufacturers meet these standards. If a roof is crushed during a rollover and results in injuries, the manufacturer, designer, and others can be held financially responsible. An experienced lawyer can help by placing a claim on your behalf under product liability law, which can recover expenses for your medical bills, lost time at work, and your pain and suffering.
Road Defects Cause Rollovers
Since road defects such as shoulder drop-off and potholes are common causes of rollover accidents, the city or state government agency in charge of roads can be held liable. When this happens, a special type of lawsuit is filed against the agency. The deadline to file is different from other personal injury lawsuits, and not meeting the deadline can mean your case will not be heard. Your personal injury lawyer will make sure that all documents are filed in time.
How a Lawyer Can Help in a Rollover Accident
At our firm, we send our investigative team to the scene of the accident to gather evidence. In keeping with the many reasons a rollover accident can happen, they are prepared to meet this challenge head-on. First, they examine the site for potholes and treadmarks on the pavement to help determine the speed of the vehicle prior to the accident and whether the driver tried to avoid a collision. They also look for evidence of road defects and use accident reconstruction techniques to determine liability. Our investigators interview witnesses and review official reports for mistakes. If a crushed roof occurred, they examine the support structures and the roof for weakness that could have caused it to collapse in on the occupants. Once all the evidence is accumulated, the case is handed over to our legal team to build a strong case for our client.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento. When faced with rising medical bills and lost wages caused by a negligent driver, you need the help of an experienced lawyer. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. You can also reach me online for my free and friendly advice.
I am a proud member of the Million Dollar Advocates and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
I have helped Sacramentans for over 38 years in car accidents, wrongful deaths, and other traumatic injuries.
Learn more about my practice by using the following links:
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/car-accident-broken-glass-splatter-337764/
:cd llo [cs 787]