When assessing the crashworthiness of a vehicle, roof strength factors greatly into the equation. When a vehicle is involved in a rollover accident, the roof absorbs a great deal of impact and must be properly designed to withstand it. The government passed a Federal Motor Safety Standard in 1973, creating a universal test to determine the strength of a vehicle's roof. This standard applies to vehicles weighing 6,000 pounds or less. Unfortunately, most SUVs weigh more than 6,000 pounds and are not subject to roof strength regulation. As SUVs are more likely to roll over than smaller vehicles, this poses a greater risk to the consumer.
Our firm has a great deal of experience with roof crush cases in the state of Washington, and an auto accident attorney from our practice can help determine if your injuries were the result of manufacturer negligence.
Roof crush accidents can result in severe injuries and death. The most common injuries associated with roof crush cases are brain injury, spinal cord injury, and head and neck damage. Studies have shown that many of the injuries sustained in accidents involving a roof collapse could have been avoided if the roofs had been adequately designed and constructed. Clearly, auto manufacturers need to raise their roof strength standards to make passenger safety a priority.
Our practice believes that all vehicles should be constructed using the highest safety standards possible, and we are committed to helping citizens obtain compensation for injuries due to manufacturer negligence. Our Washington firm will provide you with an auto accident attorney who is highly experienced in roof crush cases.
Rollover accidents are regarded as being highly survivable in vehicles with proper roof strength. Unfortunately, too many passengers fall victim to poorly constructed vehicles, resulting in serious injuries, and even death. If you or a loved one has been injured in a roof crush accident, our Washington firm can help. An auto accident attorney can asses your case and determine if you are eligible to obtain damages for your suffering. Contact Philips & Webster today.