Automakers have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are built to protect occupants, even in rollover accidents. Unfortunately, cost-cutting measures often lead to subpar roof structures that fail during collisions.
Consumers can take legal action against automakers through product liability claims when these preventable failures occur. Common claims include:
- Manufacturing defects: Issues like poor materials or errors during production.
- Design defects: Flawed roof designs that ignore safer alternatives.
- Negligence: Automakers failing to prioritize the safety of vehicle roof structures.
Pursuing legal action can hold manufacturers accountable and help prevent similar incidents.
Causes of Roof Collapse in Rollover Accidents
In most cases, vehicle roof collapses stem from defective designs or manufacturing flaws. Federal safety standards require that roofs withstand rollovers without collapsing, but when manufacturers use weak materials or flawed designs, roofs may fail. Common causes include:
- Insufficient roof pillars or roll cages.
- Structural weaknesses in the roof design.
- Use of inferior materials during manufacturing.
These failures not only contribute to injuries but also prevent occupants from escaping vehicles after a rollover, increasing the severity of harm.
Legal Action Against Dodge Ram Roof Defects
One notable case that Conner, Marr & Pinski was involved in a 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 in Montana. Our client, the driver, while under the speed limit, experienced a rollover when the vehicle left the roadway. Despite wearing a seatbelt, the driver was pinned inside when the roof collapsed and drowned.
Investigations revealed that Dodge Ram trucks from this model year had structural issues with roof strength, leading to passenger compartment intrusion during rollovers. Under normal roll-over conditions, the roof should have sufficient strength/integrity to avoid passenger compartment intrusion. Had the manufacturer used safer roof designs available at the time, the driver might have survived.
Dodge, owned by FCA, was aware of the roof integrity problem, and Conner Marr & Pinski was able to settle the case for a significant sum without going into litigation. Unfortunately, similar risks remain in other vehicles with comparable flaws.
Common Injuries From Roof Collapses
When a roof crushes in a rollover accident, the injuries can be life-altering or fatal. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis.
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding.
- Fractures, lacerations, and severe bruising.
- Neck and back injuries.
- Fatalities due to entrapment or asphyxiation.
These injuries often result in permanent disabilities, loss of mobility, or even death.
Steps to Take After a Roof Collapse Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a roof collapse accident, it’s crucial to:
- Seek immediate medical attention to document your injuries.
- Keep detailed records of medical treatments, bills, and any therapy received.
- Document your pain, suffering, and limitations caused by the injuries.
- Consult with an attorney experienced in vehicle defect cases to explore your legal options.
Contact Defective Auto Product Attorneys in Montana
If you’ve been injured in a rollover accident caused by a defective roof, Conner, Marr & Pinski can help. We have experience handling cases against manufacturers, including those involving Dodge Ram trucks with roof integrity issues.
Whether you’re dealing with a roof collapse injury or have lost a loved one in a fatal accident, our team is here to provide support and guidance. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options for compensation.
