How Vehicle Rollovers Often Lead to Catastrophic Spinal Injuries

Rollover accidents are incredibly dangerous for drivers and passengers inside the vehicle. Those who are lucky enough to survive these crashes could end up with bone fractures and internal bleeding. Some victims may even sustain catastrophic spinal injuries that significantly impact their quality of life. 

Learn why these injuries are so common with rollover crashes and how a catastrophic spinal injuries lawyer advocates for victims. 

What Causes Rollover Accidents?

Vehicle rollovers can occur for several reasons, including:

• Speeding coupled with sudden turns: When a speeding driver quickly swerves, they may lose control of the vehicle and cause it to flip over. 
• Driving while under the influence: Drunk drivers with slower reaction times could lose control of their vehicles and end up in a rollover crash. 
• A high center of gravity: Semi-trucks, vans, and other large vehicles have a higher center of gravity than sedans, which may make them more prone to rolling over. 
• Various road conditions: Certain road conditions can also contribute to accidents, such as icy surfaces, potholes, and roads without guardrails or other barriers.  

Catastrophic Injuries That May Stem From Rollover Accidents

If you ask a catastrophic spinal injuries lawyer about the dangers of rollover crashes, they may tell you about the lasting effects of spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries. Victims may fracture their skull or neck, become paralyzed, or endure a long-term traumatic brain injury. 

These injuries can lead to extensive medical bills and long-term rehabilitation. Some victims become permanently disabled and may need to make modifications to their homes to make them more accessible. Depending on the severity of the injury, the victim could be unable to work and claim a loss of earnings in their personal injury claim. 

How a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer May Be Able To Help

A rollover crash can change your life in an instant. If you sustain catastrophic spinal injuries, a lawyer may be able to help you seek compensation for your losses. Consult an attorney with experience handling similar personal injury claims and ask about their track record in these types of cases. 

Legal teams assess accident liability to determine whether you have grounds to sue a negligent third party. Say your top-heavy pickup truck rolled over because you had to swerve to avoid a wrong-way driver. In this case, the other motorist may be liable for your injuries. 

What if the crash occurs on poorly maintained roads? The government entity responsible for maintaining them could be liable. In some cases, vehicle manufacturers play a role in crashes and could be subject to personal injury lawsuits. 

After reviewing the evidence, a lawyer evaluates your losses, including both economic and non-economic damages. They can advocate for an appropriate car or truck accident settlement and negotiate with the defendant or their insurance company. If negotiations are unsuccessful, the case may go to trial. 

Case outcomes vary, and not all plaintiffs secure compensation. A lawyer can explain the legal process and set realistic expectations for you. 

Consult the Personal Injury Lawyers at Geoff McDonald & Associates for Assistance

You could have a long, difficult recovery after a rollover accident leaves you hurt. Did the crash stem from a negligent driver, defective part, or even unmaintained roadways? You may be able to pursue compensation for your injuries. 

Reach out to Geoff McDonald & Associates to meet with a catastrophic spinal injuries lawyer. Our team has more than 25 years of experience and is equipped to handle these sensitive cases. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your case with a knowledgeable legal professional and learn about filing a personal injury claim. 

Call (804) 203-0678 to get started.