When a truck turns on the side and causes injuries or damage, this is considered a rollover accident. These accidents are more frequent than we think on South Carolina roads and highways.
While South Carolina has stringent laws that trucking companies and drivers must obey, the companies and drivers often overlook these precautions.
If you or a loved one get involved in a truck rollover accident, seek help from an experienced truck accident lawyer for legal counsel. Contact our attorneys at Elrod Pope Law Firm serving the injured in Rock Hill, South Carolina, and the surrounding areas.
Most Common Causes of Rollover Accidents in Rock Hill, SC
There are multiple causes of truck rollover accidents. In some cases, there are additional contributing factors to evaluate. Below are potential causes of rollover truck accidents.
Excessive or improper cargo loading
The high center of gravity in tractors that pull tankers or cargo increases the chances of truck rollovers. The rollover can happen when the driver makes a sudden shift of the brakes while turning or driving at high speed.
Inadequate truck maintenance
Lack of thorough inspection compromises the efficiency of a truck. This could cause various failures in the vehicle, such as the tires, engine, steering, lights and reflectors, wheels rims, brake systems, and other essential components. When these components fail to work appropriately, the truck can lose control and roll over onto other vehicles.
Poor highway conditions
Road conditions are also a possible cause of truck rollover accidents in South Carolina. The government or agencies responsible for road maintenance can be held liable for the injuries and damages incurred. A truck can easily roll over on a poorly maintained road for the following reasons.
- Swerving to avoid potholes
- Hitting road debris and bumps
- Trouble braking on a steep downhill road
An experienced truck rollover accident lawyer can investigate a rollover accident and determine the primary cause of your injuries.
Common Injuries in Truck Rollover Accidents
Truck accident victims can suffer multiple injuries when a truck rolls over. It is imperative to seek medical care immediately. Here are the most common injuries in rollover truck crashes.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
A head injury can occur when the brain crashes back and forth inside the skull. This can cause bleeding and bruising. The victim may experience blurry vision, loss of memory, numbness of the hands, paralysis, and dizziness.
Broken bones
Most accident victims suffer broken bones and limbs due to the heavy wreckage of the truck. This injury can affect the lower leg, upper leg, fingers, and toe. In most cases, the victim may need surgery to heal completely. However, they may experience multiple long-term limitations.
Spinal cord injuries
Rollover truck accidents can cause spinal cord injuries that may result in partial paralysis in most body parts, mainly affecting the legs and lower body. Accident victims who suffer spinal cord injuries experience multiple symptoms, such as numbness on the fingers, feet, and toes and loss of sensation in the hands.
Bruises, cuts, and scrapes
Truck rollover accidents often happen with a lot of force that may cause debris and metals to move around violently, lacerating victims in another vehicle.
Liability for Truck Rollover Accidents in Rock Hill, SC
If a truck rollover accident occurred due to negligence from another party, you might be liable for compensation. The damages you may recover depend on the circumstances of the accident and include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Loss of earning potential
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Other damages
Proving negligence can be challenging and time-consuming. At Elrod Pope Law Firm, we know how to determine your case’s value and guide you accordingly.
Contact Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys in Rock Hill, SC
If you or a loved one got involved in a truck accident rollover, seek treatment and legal expertise immediately.
The experienced rollover accident attorneys at Elrod Pope Law Firm can advise you on the appropriate options to explore in recovering your damages. We fight and protect the rights of truck accident victims. Contact us for a free case evaluation.
Rollover Truck Accident Case FAQs
Who is liable for a truck rollover accident in South Carolina?
Determining the at-fault party in a truck rollover accident can be complex because it may involve different parties, such as the truck driver, truck company, truck manufacturer, government agencies, or vehicle parts retailers.
What is the statute of limitations for truck rollover accidents in South Carolina?
The statute of limitations is the timeframe for filing a claim against the liable party in a truck rollover accident. You are expected to file the claim within three years after the accident.
Should I talk to the insurance companies after a truck rollover accident?
It is advisable to avoid speaking directly to an insurance company or a representative from the trucking company because you might give information that may be used against you in the long run.