Rollover - Vehicles

Vehicles

All vehicles are susceptible to rollovers to various extents. Generally, the higher the center of mass, the narrower the axle track, the more sensitive the steering, and the higher the speed, the more likely a vehicle is to roll over. Civilian SUVs and full-sized vans are notorious for rolling over because they usually have a higher center of gravity, caused by a higher ground clearance. Manufacturers often post warnings on the driver's sun-visor. Among the vehicles which have received publicity for tendencies to roll over are the Ford Bronco II, Suzuki Samurai, Jeep CJ, Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero, and Isuzu Trooper.

Pickup trucks are also prone to rollover, especially those outfitted with long travel off road suspensions. This is due to the increased suspension height for increased clearance off road. In addition, 15-passenger vans, a segment dominated by the Ford Ford E-Series, are tall because of their heavy-duty suspensions necessary to carry large amounts of people which also make them prone to rollover. The rollover tendency is exacerbated when the vehicles are heavily loaded. It is recommended to not load anything on the roof of such vans, and to use drivers experienced or trained in safe operation of the vehicle. In such cases, being familiar with the vehicle's behavior loaded and unloaded, avoiding sudden swerving maneuvers, and reducing speed through tight turns can greatly decrease the rollover risk associated with these vehicles.

Military vehicles have a much wider wheel track than civilian SUVs, making them more difficult to roll over. However, IEDs in Iraq and Afghanistan cause roll overs not seen by civilian vehicles. The top turret gunner is particularly vulnerable.

A tall passenger coach made US headlines when 14 passengers were killed in New York in 2011. The bus swerved, flipped on its side and hit a pole which split off the top of the vehicle.