How to Prevent a Rollover

The rollover is the second most likely type of vehicle accident to result in a fatality. The only accident which causes more fatalities than a rollover is the "full frontal collision." The secret to keeping the control of your vehicle and preventing a rollover is the "center of gravity" on your vehicle.

In order to maintain the center of gravity in a vehicle, you must be aware of the limitations of your vehicle, and have a limited understanding of the law of physics. Several key factors play important parts in keeping your car sunny side up. You can also check out www.ehow.com/rollover where additional information is provided

One of the most important factors in keeping your car safe and upright is the driving habits of the driver. The driver must be aware of what's around him, and know the abilities of himself and also his vehicle. But what happens when the driver and the vehicle are "centered" and an incident happens which calls for a quick decision? This very action at "this point" is what determines if a vehicle's center of gravity remains in place.

The Physics of a Rollover

Most rollover accidents are caused by impaired drivers. Most these are drivers who have had too much to drink and decide to share the road with us and our families. These impaired drivers reactions are delayed, and "delayed reaction" usually causes the driver to "overreact" which drastically jeopardizes the center of gravity in the vehicle.

This over-correcting move has now put the vehicle to the "tipping point of gravity." Drunk drivers are not only drivers who push their vehicles past this point of return. Driver error is the leading factor when it comes to "tipping" the vehicle beyond recovery.

Developing good driving habits could prevent most rollovers, but knowledge of your vehicle also plays an important part in rollovers. The first thing to help in preventing a rollover is to know the vehicle you are driving. Check your owners manual if you have one, if not research your vehicle to find out the "stability capabilities" of your vehicle.

SUVs along with Mini-vans and trucks are more likely to rollover (especially older models) due to their high center of gravity. This higher center of gravity minimizes the track of the vehicle (the distance between your wheels) which means your vehicle has a harder time stabilizing itself in the event of an accident. The closer the vehicle is to the ground the stronger the gravity pull is, which also adds to the stability of the vehicle.

Ralph Nader wrote a book many years ago "Unsafe at any speed" which talked about the poorly designed car the Corvair. The flaw in the design of Corvair can be compared to the SUVs of today. If you're driving a high profile vehicle be aware of your vehicles capabilities, and also its disabilities. Always be conscious of a "high center" of gravity.

Preventing a Rollover

Most rollovers are contributed to dangerous conditions, and irresponsible actions of the driver. SUVs are top heavy, and along with unsafe road conditions and bad driving habits can result in rolling the vehicle over. Sharp turns or exit ramps when taken at an "unsafe speed" disrupts the lateral balance of the vehicle which results in a tipping affect.

Always observe speed limits signs on ramp and curves; these signs are for dry conditions, not wet or icy conditions. Any unsafe quick movements can also cause a rollover such as: stopping extremely fast (brake lock up occurs) or making a quick over- adjustment in the steering; such as dodging another vehicle or a deer in the road. If the tip of the vehicle is too much, gravity begins to pull on the topside of the vehicle which results in a rollover.

A rollover situation can only occur if there is enough friction between the tires and road to create sufficient Centripetal force. This statement comes from the theories of Isaac Newton who taught that the "acceleration times the mass involved equals the force." This statement is saying that there has to be enough friction on the road and tires combined, to create a rollover.

In icy conditions when the friction is lost the vehicle then creates a "straight slide" past the point of the turn (where the rollover would take place). Now that you know what causes a rollover, here are some helpful tips which could help you to survive or prevent a rollover before it happens.

Buckle up your Seat Belt

This is always a good habit to get used to. If in fact a rollover occurs, this simple act could be the one determining factor to keep you from becoming a fatality. So, be smart and buckle up, it only takes a second to save a life.

Anticipate Incoming Risks

Be aware of potential consequences of other driver's bad driving habits. This reminds you to keep a safe "following distance" just in case an "event" happens. Also be aware when approaching an intersection, as this is where most accidents happen.

Keep away from Heavy Traffic if Possible

Don't travel in a pack of vehicles, this only increases the chances of a rollover. Try to say out of other vehicles blind spots. Traveling in a group of vehicle leaves you no "safe place" to go in case an event happens. This also drastically reduces your reaction time.

Don't Overload your Vehicle

SUVs and min-vans are more susceptible to rollovers when the vehicle had been overloaded. This includes the passengers of the vehicle also. Know your vehicles weight limitations, and the abilities of your vehicle.

Avoid Sudden Corrective Actions

If in case an event happens when a steering procedure is needed; avoid making very quick corrective movements. This puts the vehicle in a very unstable state. Over correction may tip off the balance of the vehicle which could result in a rollover.

Mechanical engineers have developed a new tool which can prevent rollovers in SUVs and similar vehicles. This is called the "Electronic stability control" or (ESC). This ESC applies brakes individually to the wheels which basically brings the vehicle back in line. Low air pressure and a soft suspension are also other factors which could provide a "tilt" to the vehicle which could result in an impending rollover.

So be careful and protect yourself. Always remember; good driving habits along with knowing the limitations of your vehicle, and making the right choices when an incident happens, will help you not to become a negative statistic on the road.

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