What is the most common life-threatening event in a rollover?

The most common life-threatening event in a rollover is ejection or partial ejection of the passenger. During a rollover, the motion of the vehicle can lead to situations where occupants are thrown from the vehicle due to a lack of proper restraints, such as seatbelts. This exposure significantly increases the risk of severe injuries or fatalities, as being ejected can lead to impact with the ground or other objects, resulting in catastrophic outcomes.

While other life-threatening injuries, such as severe head injuries, internal bleeding, and spinal fractures, can certainly occur in rollover accidents, the risk of ejection presents a clear and immediate danger that is often more prevalent. Restraint systems, when used effectively, can help prevent ejection, underscoring the importance of wearing seatbelts at all times. This highlights the critical role of safety features in vehicles and the need for advocacy around their use to reduce the number of serious injuries in rollover incidents.