How to Prevent SUV Rollover Accidents

Recent studies reveal that sports utility vehicles, or SUVs, have the highest fatality rate in rollover accidents of all types of vehicles. SUV rollovers occur at approximately three times the rate of the standard passenger car, so it's important to take precautions to help prevent being involved in an SUV rollover accident.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Be aware of the higher center of gravity. SUVs have a higher center of gravity than other vehicles. This makes them top-heavy and more prone to roll over when taking turns at high speeds. The higher center of gravity can also be problematic when engaging in sudden corrective action or when the tires catch in ruts or ditches on the side of the road. By recognizing and accommodating the higher center of gravity in an SUV, you can prevent rollover accidents caused by throwing off that higher center of gravity.

2. Respect the weight of an SUV. SUVs are much heavier than standard passenger cars. This means that SUV accidents cause more damage and injury than other vehicles. By driving cautiously, obeying all traffic laws and being aware and considerate of other drivers, you automatically reduce your chances of being in an SUV rollover accident.

3. Understand the purpose of an SUV. SUVs were originally designed to be off-road vehicles. When manufacturers recognized their appeal to the average consumer, they adapted SUVs for passenger use without installing the protections that would be necessary in an off-road vehicle. As a result, SUVs lack roll bar protection. This creates more injuries and damage when rollover accidents do occur.

4. Recognize the design problems in an SUV. SUVs have been widely accused of lacking adequate crash protection, such as weak roofs, which can make SUV rollover accidents more deadly. By being aware of these design issues, you can use defensive driving techniques to avoid unsafe situations and prevent being involved in an SUV rollover accident.