Rollover Car Accidents in Fort Collins

Rollover car accidents in Fort Collins are among the most devastating types of motor vehicle collisions, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. If you or a loved one got hurt in a rollover crash, The Wilhite Law Firm can help you seek justice and compensation for what you’ve endured.

Our firm has represented clients in car accidents and other personal injury matters since 1977. That’s over 45 years of experience delivering results that count, including numerous seven-figure settlements on behalf of car accident victims. Put our determination, professionalism, and empathy to work for you. Call or contact us today for a free consultation with our car accident attorney.

What Are the Common Causes of Rollover Accidents?

Rollover accidents can occur for various reasons, but certain factors make them more likely.

Some of the most common causes of rollover accidents in Fort Collins include:

• Speeding – High-speed driving increases the likelihood of flipping over, especially around curves or when attempting quick maneuvers.
• Sharp turns or overcorrection – A car’s center of gravity can shift when a driver swerves suddenly, steers unnecessarily, or slams the brakes, potentially leading to a rollover.
• Vehicle design – SUVs, trucks, and vans are more prone to rollovers because they are top-heavy. Even a slight imbalance or miscalculation can cause a vehicle to tip over.
• Distracted driving – Inattentive drivers are more likely to make sudden maneuvers when they realize too late that their actions have created a dangerous situation.
• Road conditions – Slippery roads, potholes, or uneven surfaces can contribute to rollovers in Fort Collins.
• Tire blowouts – A sudden tire failure at high speeds can throw the vehicle off balance, increasing the chances of a rollover.

Understanding the cause of a rollover accident is critical for determining who is liable and your right to seek compensation. At The Wilhite Law Firm, we thoroughly investigate the circumstances of each accident to identify all contributing factors. Contact our lawyer today.

What Are the Most Common Injuries from a Rollover Accident?

Rollover accidents can have catastrophic consequences. Statistics show around 35 percent of rollover victims die. That works out to over 7,500 people per year.

Some of the most common Fort Collins rollover accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – The impact of a rollover can cause severe head trauma, leading to concussions, brain bleeds, or permanent cognitive impairments.
• Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or other life-altering conditions. These serious injuries often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and extreme lifestyle changes.
• Broken bones – The force of a rollover crash can easily fracture bones, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs.
• Internal injuries – Rollover accidents often cause blunt force trauma, resulting in internal bleeding or damage to vital organs.
• Lacerations and burns – Victims may suffer from deep cuts, abrasions, or burns from contact with broken glass, metal, or fires ignited by the accident.

Why Are Rollover Accidents More Severe Than Other Types of Collisions?

Rollover accidents tend to result in more severe injuries than other collisions due to the unique dynamics involved.

Some factors that contribute to the increased severity of rollover accidents include:

• Multiple points of impact – Unlike a typical crash where there may be one or two points of impact, rollover accidents often involve numerous impacts as the vehicle flips over. This increases the chances of injury for vehicle occupants.
• Roof crush – The roof of a car or truck may cave in upon impact, crushing those inside. Vehicles that lack proper roof reinforcement, such as convertibles and Jeeps, are particularly dangerous in this type of accident.
• Seatbelt failure or ejection – Seatbelt designs are less effective in rollover crashes, which increases the likelihood of accident victims getting ejected from the vehicle. However, wearing a seatbelt is still better than nothing. Larimer County ranks 16th in the state for its seatbelt usage rate, with 89.5 percent of occupants buckling up every time they hit the road.
• Vehicle instability – Certain vehicles, like SUVs, are inherently less stable by design. This increases the risk of a rollover and subsequent injuries.

Because of the heightened danger associated with rollovers, victims often face long-term or permanent physical and emotional challenges. At The Wilhite Law Firm, our Fort Collins lawyers are dedicated to holding the responsible parties accountable and helping you pursue maximum compensation after a rollover accident.

Can I Recover Compensation for the Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a rollover accident in Fort Collins caused by another party’s negligence, you may be eligible to seek financial compensation for your losses.

Compensation can cover a range of losses, including:

• Medical bills – Compensation for past, current, and future medical expenses such as hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and prescription medications
• Lost wages – Money for missed time at your job while recovering from your injuries
• Lost earning capacity – Compensation for any future lost income if you can no longer work due to disability or long-term impairment
• Pain and suffering – Reimbursement for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced from the collision

An experienced lawyer at The Wilhite Law Firm will work diligently to pursue all avenues of compensation that could lead to the financial recovery you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Rollover Accident?

Liability in a rollover accident depends on the specific circumstances of the crash. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Other drivers – In some cases, another driver’s actions may have forced the vehicle to swerve or take evasive action, leading to a rollover.
• Vehicle manufacturer – If a vehicle defect, such as faulty tires or a weak roof structure, contributed to the rollover, the automaker could be held responsible under product liability laws.
• Government entities – Poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage may contribute to rollover accidents. A car accident claim may be filed against the responsible government agency in such cases.

Does Colorado Have a Statute of Limitations for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit?

Yes. Colorado law has a time limit for filing car accident lawsuits. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file. If you miss this deadline, you will most likely lose your right to seek compensation through the courts.

Exceptions to this rule may apply, such as if the injured party is a minor or if the car crash involves a government entity. It’s essential to consult a skilled Fort Collins car accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the applicable timeframe.

Contact a Fort Collins Rollover Accident Attorney

If you or a family member suffered injuries in a rollover car accident in Fort Collins, The Wilhite Law Firm can help. Our compassionate and experienced legal team can guide you through the car accident claims process and seek maximum compensation from the insurance company. Our lawyer is here to help.

But don’t just take our word for it. Past clients like Gaby Mims can attest to the level of service we provide to our clients. She writes, “What happens to you in an accident is not fun. What you need is someone to be there for you … Don’t mess up and hire someone who doesn’t care. Hire Wilhite and there won’t be a regret.”

Contact us today for a free consultation.