COMMON CAUSES OF ROLLOVER CRASHES

Have you been in a roll-over accident? It is a terrifying experience. Rollover crashes happen, and they often lead to devastating injuries and fatalities. Understanding the common causes of roll-over crashes can help you better protect yourself and your loved ones from these life-threatening accidents. If a negligent driver leaves you injured in a roll-over crash, you need the experienced legal counsel of a dedicated Houston, Texas, auto accident lawyer.

Rollover Accidents and Driver Error

he National Highway and Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) finds that driver error plays a significant part in roll-over accidents. Overcompensating in emergency driving situations—rather than safely steering through them—is a common culprit. When you find yourself in a driving emergency that was brought on by your driving error, however, it’s all too easy to panic and overcompensates. Several specific driver errors are especially conducive to such overcompensation:

  • Driving with Excessive Speed – Speed plays a larger role in fatal rollovers than it does in any other kind of traffic fatality. In fact, speeding is a factor in nearly 40 percent of all fatal rollovers that occur on roads with at least a 55-mph speed limit.
  • Driving while Impaired – Impaired driving is always dangerous driving, but this doesn’t adequately relay the significant role that impairment plays in deadly rollover accidents. In fact, half of all fatal rollovers involve an impaired driver. When you encounter a driving emergency, even a small amount of alcohol in your system can prove exceedingly dangerous.
  • Traveling on Country Roads – Rural highways and roads see more than their fair share of rollover accidents. Such roads often lack the safety features of a more-traveled divided highway. Ultimately, about 75 percent of all rollover fatalities happen on rural roadways with speed limits of at least 55 mph.
  • Driving on Worn, Damaged, or Faultily Manufactured Tires – Our vehicles’ tires tether us to the road. When they aren’t up to the task, they leave us vulnerable to dangerous accidents, including rollovers. Your ability to control your car safely in an emergency directly correlates to the condition of your tires, and rollover crashes are often the result of a driver’s loss of control.

Multi-Car Rollover Accidents

Most roll-overs are single-car accidents, but roll-over crashes involving more than one car also happen. Such accidents are typically predicated on drivers who speed excessively, drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs, or fail to adjust to a road’s less-than-perfect condition, including the dangerous effects of inclement weather.

The devastation associated with rollovers is often overwhelming. If you or someone you love has been injured in such an accident, the experienced auto accident lawyers at The Valenzuela Law Firm, PC in Houston, Texas, are on your side. Our dedicated legal team is committed to aggressively advocating for the compensation to which you are entitled.

If a negligent driver leaves you injured in a roll-over accident, consult with an experienced Houston, Texas, auto accident lawyer today.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CRASHED IN A COMPANY TRUCK?

People employed by certain companies often have to use the company truck for making deliveries or picking up goods. Unfortunately, accidents will happen. The situation can be very complex, especially if you are found to be at fault. At the end of the day, there will always be the issue of who is going to pay. If you are injured in a crash, it is advisable to seek the support of a personal injury attorney. Only they can give you the guidance you need when it comes to preserving your rights.

The Insurance Company

This can be very tricky. If the truck is insured, the insurance company will cover the damage. If there are other injuries, the responsible party will be required to pay for them. In some cases, where there is a liability, the at-fault driver may be pressed to pay the company back. Therefore, you will need an experienced Houston truck accident attorney on your side. The professionals at The Valenzuela Law Firm, PC, have a solid track record in defending personal injury and truck accident claims. These accidents can take a tremendous toll on your life and your family’s life. Let an experienced firm help you reclaim your life.

Determining Responsibility After the Accident

When it comes to determining fault in employee-versus-employer accidents, judges almost always rule that employers are responsible for their employees. The issue is, was the employee operating within the scope of employment? This is an issue that can be tricky. In most states, the rule is that if the employee was working in the capacity of performing work-related activities, the employer is responsible. However, if the employee had the truck during off-hours and had an accident, it could dramatically change things. You must consult an attorney as quickly as possible. Because there may be other factors that determine liability, such as the car policy contract and whether there is a liability exclusion, the state where the accident happened, and the terms of the insurance policy. Insurance policies vary wildly. Even if the employee is driving, there can be coverage restrictions that could make them liable.

Intentional Acts by The Driver

As ridiculous as it may sound on its face, there are times when employees intentionally damage company vehicles. While in most cases, the employer is liable if the employee has an accident, there may be times when the employer is not. For instance, an employee would be liable if they intentionally wrecked the vehicle out of anger at someone at the company. If the accident is not related to company business, the employee will likely have to pay the company back. If you have been involved in a company vehicle accident, you should find a personal injury attorney to represent your case today. While some issues may seem cut and dry, personal injury attorneys understand the law. They will utilize all their knowledge and skills to achieve a successful outcome. The Valenzuela Law Firm, PC, is more than ready to give you the representation you need. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.