Rollovers are dangerous incidents and have a higher fatality rate than other kinds of crashes. Of the nearly 11 million passenger car, SUV, pickup and van crashes in 2002, only 3% involved a rollover. However, rollovers accounted for nearly 33% of all deaths from passenger vehicle crashes.
1
Medical Attention
First, and foremost, seek medical attention for any and all injuries you have sustained or pre-existing injuries that have been aggravated. I am not a doctor and cannot dispense medical advice. However, if you are injured in a rollover, seek immediate medical attention.
2
Contact a Competent Attorney
It is extremely important to contact an attorney if you have been injured in a rollover. An attorney will be able to help you determine if you have a crashworthiness claim based on the design or manufacturer of the vehicle. There are a select group of attorneys in the nation who specialize in crashworthiness cases. Contact an attorney that specializes in crashworthiness cases or call a personal injury attorney and request a referral to one. Also, and importantly, it is not advisable to accept a settlement or sign a release regarding any party that was involved in the accident before conferring with an attorney.
3
Secure the Vehicle
Typically, this step should be completed by your attorney. In an abundance of caution, it may be best for you to contact the company that insured the vehicle that was involved in the rollover, any other insurance company involved, and/or the wrecker yard where the vehicle is located. When you contact them, let them know that you are currently investigating your rights against the vehicle manufacturer. Let the insurance company know to not modify, destroy, alter, or change the vehicle in any way. You should request that the vehicle be moved to a secured location where it will be protected from the elements. If it cannot be moved to an indoor location, ask that they cover it in plastic or a tarp. This step will be easier or harder depending on whether you own the vehicle.
4
Seek a Second Opinion
If your first attorney chooses not to represent you in your claims against the auto manufacturer, seek a second opinion. Ask the first attorney when your statute of limitations ends to make sure you seek another opinion within the time the law allows.
5
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information to help visitors understand the law. None of the information on this guide constitutes legal advice. If you need legal advice you are strongly encouraged to seek a qualified attorney. The information presented on this guide does not constitute the views or opinions of Watts Guerra Craft LLP or any of its attorneys. This guide does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Justin Hill or Watts Guerra Craft LLP, nor is it intended to do so. Also, please understand that contacting Justin Hill or Watts Guerra Craft LLP via telephone, written mail, or electronic e-mail does not mean you have established an attorney-client relationship with Justin Hill or Watts Guerra Craft LLP. Therefore, do not send any confidential information until an attorney-client relationship has been established.
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