Rollover Accident Lawyers in New Jersey
Reviewed by Mazie Slater’s specialized car accident attorney [David A. Mazie – Managing Partner of Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman]
The New Jersey rollover accident lawyers at Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman are experts in handling product liability lawsuits involving personal injuries caused by rollover accidents of a car, SUV or truck. No vehicle accident is good, but some are far worse than others. SUV rollovers are about as bad as a car crash can be. Soccer moms and families throughout New Jersey find SUVs to be very versatile and great for hauling their children to school and sporting events. Unfortunately, SUVs have a high center of gravity, which makes them prone to rollover car accidents.
Rollover Accident Statistics in New Jersey
In New Jersey, statewide car crash statistics are not distinctly categorized by crash type. However, the NJDOT notes that in 2023, approximately 18 fatal car accidents were classified as “overturned” vehicles, commonly known as rollover accidents.While state-specific rollover data is limited, national statistics indicate that rollover crashes are a significant concern. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rollover crashes account for a substantial proportion of severe and fatal injuries.
What Causes Rollover Car Accidents?
Frequently, rollover accidents happen when a driver suddenly turns sharply to avoid debris, an animal in the road or another driver. A car would normally slide over the highway, but SUVs tend to tip over and roll. This is referred to as an untripped or frictional rollover. They can also trip over a curb, guardrail or median, which is called a tripped rollover. Usually tripping occurs when the vehicle is moving quickly and one side hits an object, which causes the vehicle to become airborne or to roll over. The U.S. Department of Transportation says that 95 percent of rollover car accidents can be blamed on tripping. Some rollovers happen when the vehicle is struck on the side by another vehicle. Other causes of rollover car accidents include:
- Poor stability design
- Inadequate braking systems
- Poorly designed suspensions
- Tire tread defects
- Tire failure
Vehicle Manufacturing Defects & Product Liability
Litigation in these rollover car accidents is against the vehicle manufacturer and is frequently based on the laws of product liability. That means there was a defect in the design or manufacture of the vehicle that caused the rollover of the car, automobile, SUV or truck, which resulted in personal injuries or death. It’s important to check the seat belts, buckles, head restraint devices, roof supports, seat backs windshields and glass for defects after a crash.
Common Injuries Caused by Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents often result in some of the most severe and life-altering injuries seen in motor vehicle crashes. Due to the violent nature of a vehicle flipping and rolling, occupants frequently suffer the following injuries:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries – This happens when someone’s heads strike the steering wheel, roof, windows, or other interior surfaces, leading to concussions, memory loss, cognitive impairments, and in severe cases, coma or permanent brain damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – These kinds of injuries are also common in rollover crashes, as the twisting and crushing forces can damage the vertebrae and spinal cord, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
- Bone Fractures – The impact forces of rollover accidents often cause multiple bone fractures throughout the body, including broken ribs from seatbelt pressure or airbag deployment, fractured arms and legs from bracing for impact, and pelvic fractures from the severe forces involved.
- Internal Injuries – These kinds of injuries pose another serious threat, as the violent motion can cause internal bleeding and organ damage that may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Crush Injuries & Lacerations – Rollover accident victims commonly suffer deep lacerations from shattered glass and debris, extensive soft tissue injuries, including severe whiplash to the neck and back, crush injuries that can cause permanent damage to extremities, and facial injuries that may require reconstructive surgery.
At Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman, our experienced rollover accident attorneys understand the devastating impact these injuries can have on victims and their families, and we are committed to helping secure the compensation needed to cover extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost wages, and the long-term care that these severe injuries often require.
How to Improve Your Odds of Rollover Accidents
While rollover accidents are among the most dangerous types of vehicle crashes, there are several proactive steps New Jersey drivers can take to significantly reduce their risk of being involved in a rollover and minimize the severity of injuries if one occurs. Understanding these safety measures and implementing them consistently can be the difference between life and death in these potentially catastrophic accidents.
- Wear your seatbelt
- Choose a safe vehicle
- Keep your tires maintained
- Drive the speed limit
- Avoid aggressive driving maneuvers
- Avoid overloading your vehicle
- Stay alert and avoid distracted driving
At Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman, we’ve seen firsthand how following these safety practices can prevent devastating rollover accidents. However, when accidents do occur due to another party’s negligence or vehicle defects, our experienced New Jersey rollover accident attorneys are here to help victims and their families pursue the full compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.
What Should You Do After a Rollover Car Accident in New Jersey?
Being involved in a rollover accident can be a terrifying and disorienting experience. The violent nature of these crashes often leaves victims confused and injured, making it difficult to think clearly about the necessary steps to protect your health and legal rights. However, taking the right actions immediately after a rollover accident in New Jersey can be crucial for your safety, recovery, and any potential legal claims. Here’s what you should do:
1. Prioritize Your Safety and Health
- Check for injuries immediately.
- Exit the vehicle safely if possible.
- Move to a safe location.
2. Call 911 Immediately
Contact emergency services right away, even if injuries seem minor. Rollover accidents often involve internal injuries or head trauma that may not be immediately apparent. Request both police and medical assistance. The responding officer will create an official police report, which is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal action.
3. Seek Medical Attention
Accept medical evaluation from paramedics when they arrive, even if you believe you’re uninjured. Many rollover accident injuries, including concussions, internal bleeding, and spinal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, diagnoses, and recommendations, as these will be essential for any insurance claims or legal proceedings.
4. Document the Accident Scene
If you’re physically able and it’s safe to do so:
- Take photographs of all vehicles involved, the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries
- Note the weather conditions and time of day
- Record the exact location of the accident
- Document any road hazards or defects that may have contributed to the rollover
5. Preserve Evidence
- Keep all medical records and bills related to your treatment
- Save receipts for any expenses related to the accident
- Don’t repair or dispose of your vehicle until after consulting with your insurance company and attorney
- Write down your recollection of how the accident occurred while it’s fresh in your memory
6. Notify Your Insurance Company, But Be Cautious
Contact your insurance company to report the accident as soon as possible. However, be cautious about giving detailed statements before consulting with an attorney. Provide basic facts but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident.
7. Contact an Experienced Rollover Accident Attorney
Given the complexity of rollover accidents and the severity of injuries they often cause, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced New Jersey rollover accident attorney as soon as possible. At Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman, we understand that rollover accidents can result from various factors, including:
- Driver negligence or recklessness
- Vehicle design defects or manufacturing flaws
- Tire defects or blowouts
- Poor road conditions or maintenance
- Inadequate safety features
Our experienced attorneys can help determine the cause of your rollover accident and identify all potentially liable parties, whether it’s another driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or a government entity responsible for road maintenance.
Understanding New Jersey’s Legal Requirements
- Statute of Limitations: In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
- No-Fault Insurance: New Jersey operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means you’ll first turn to your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
- Right to Sue: Depending on the severity of your injuries and your insurance coverage selection, you may have the right to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party for additional damages, including pain and suffering.
New Jersey Rollover Car Accident Lawsuits
Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman, has a team of rollover car accident attorneys who will carefully check the vehicle and the scene of any rollover accident. Our rollover accident lawyers have extensive experience in litigating New Jersey rollover car accident and automobile defect cases. If you or a loved one were seriously injured or killed as a result of a rollover or car defect accident in New Jersey, contact the New Jersey law firm of Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman. One of our rollover accident lawyers will get back to you as soon as possible to discuss your rollover accident.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rollover Accident Cases
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Who is liable in a rollover accident?
Liability depends on the circumstances of the crash. It could rest with a negligent driver, a vehicle manufacturer (in the case of a defect), or a government agency if poor road conditions contributed to the accident.
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Can I sue for injuries sustained in a rollover accident?
Yes, if another party’s negligence caused the accident, you may have grounds to sue for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering under New Jersey personal injury law.
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How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a rollover accident in New Jersey?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Jersey is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s best to consult an attorney promptly to protect your rights.
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Is expert testimony required in rollover accident cases?
Often, yes. Experts in accident reconstruction, vehicle dynamics, or road engineering may be necessary to establish fault or prove causation in a complex rollover case.
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Are rollover crashes covered by insurance in New Jersey?
Yes, but coverage depends on the type of policy. Personal injury protection (PIP), liability, and comprehensive or collision insurance may all play roles in covering damages and medical costs.
