I am an Accident Investigator who specializes in investigating Automotive Accidents. I am also a retired Paramedic, with 20 years street level experience, in Atlanta, Georgia.

In recent years, rollover accidents involving all types of "high profile" vehicles have seen increased media attention, due largely to the fact that a certain manufacturer's vehicle / tires, have been the subject of a Class Action lawsuit.

I work for the manufacturers, to investigate and determine the cause of SUV rollovers, and develop investigative information to defend the manufacturer's in these accidents. I also represent EMT's and Firefighters who find themselves the Subject of a Civil or Criminal situation as a result of Publc Safety vehicle accidents.

Some of the more common attributes that I see routinely in rollover accidents include; Poor or Infrequent Driver Training, Poor vehicle maintenance, and too much speed.

Poor Training does not even deserve further comment. Employers or Volunteer Organizations should require that employee's / volunteers take EVOC and Defensive Driving at least every other year! Rotating years (EVOC this year, Defensive Driving next year) is a great approach, as it keeps good driving habits fresh in the mind of the driver at all times.

The second leading cause of rollovers that is avoidable is poor maintenance and upkeep of tires! Tires should be inspected DAILY! Inspection should include thoroughly looking at the tire for improper wear, tread separation, cracking, debris penetration, etc.

MORE IMPORTANTLY is TIRE PRESSURE! Tire pressure should be determined by the Vehicle Manufacturer and / or Tire Manufacturer. It should be checked daily. Improper pressure in a tire causes the vehicle to improperly tilt, resulting in a top heavy condition. Also, if the vehicle is placed into an evasive maneuver such as a sharp turn, improper tire pressure can cause the tire to roll onto the sidewall, resulting in pinching or de-sealing the bead of the tire, or can actual cause the wheel to "bite" into the pavement resulting in "tripping" the vehicle into a rollover.

Last but not least.....SLOW DOWN .

Stay Safe!!!

Dennis Forrester
Atlanta, Georgia