Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) have many advantages, making them a popular choice for decades. SUVs have more space for passengers, pets, and cargo (making long road trips more comfortable), better visibility, and off-road capabilities (they are better equipped to handle bad weather conditions like snow, ice, wind, and heat). But with all their good features, SUVs can also prove more dangerous than other vehicles regarding rollover accidents.
SUVs have a higher center of gravity than sedans, making some models more prone to rollovers, particularly during sharp turns or emergency maneuvers. While modern safety features like electronic stability control help mitigate risks, certain SUV designs remain more susceptible to rollover accidents.
Here are some SUVs that have a history of rollover accidents.
Ford Explorer (Pre-2011 Models)
Older Ford Explorer models, particularly those built before 2011, have a history of rollover concerns. These vehicles were involved in widely publicized accidents in the late 1990s and early 2000s, partly due to their truck-based body-on-frame design, which increased their center of gravity.
Combined with stability issues, these factors contributed to a three-star rollover rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), indicating a 20-30% risk of rollover in a single-vehicle crash.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler, designed primarily for off-road performance, has consistently received low scores in rollover resistance tests. Its narrow track width, high ground clearance, and short wheelbase—especially in two-door models—make it more prone to tipping over during sudden lane changes or sharp turns on paved roads.
The Wrangler’s three-star rollover rating reflects a 20-30% rollover risk, higher than many other SUVs in its class.
Chevrolet Trailblazer (2002-2009)
The first-generation Chevrolet Trailblazer, produced from 2002 to 2009, was built on a truck platform, which gave it a high center of gravity and made it more susceptible to rollovers. NHTSA awarded it a three-star rollover rating, indicating a 20-30% risk of tipping over in a single-vehicle crash.
Early models lacked standard electronic stability control, further increasing the likelihood of loss of control in critical situations. The extended-length Trailblazer EXT had an even higher risk due to additional weight behind the rear axle.
Nissan Pathfinder (Pre-2013 Models)
Pathfinder models produced before 2013, particularly the 2005-2012 generation, were built on a body-on-frame platform similar to Nissan’s pickup trucks. While this design enhanced off-road capability, it also resulted in a higher center of gravity, affecting stability during sudden maneuvers.
The Pathfinder received a three-star NHTSA rollover rating, with a 21.9% risk of rollover. Models with third-row seating had additional weight behind the rear axle, further impacting handling.
Toyota 4Runner (Early Generations)
Earlier Toyota 4Runner models, particularly those produced through 2009, were designed with off-road performance in mind. They featured high ground clearance and a body-on-frame construction, which contributed to a higher rollover risk during high-speed turns or sudden steering maneuvers.
NHTSA rated these models with a three-star rollover resistance score, estimating a 22-24% risk of rollover in a single-vehicle crash. Vehicle modifications such as lift kits and oversized tires can further increase instability.
Drivers of these SUV models should exercise caution, particularly during high-speed driving, sharp turns, and emergency lane changes, to reduce the risk of rollover accidents.
Contact The Ammons Law Firm if You Were Injured in a Rollover Accident Due to a Defective Vehicle
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a rollover accident, the Ammons Law Firm is here to help. Our dedicated, experienced rollover accident attorneys understand the devastating impact of these tragic accidents on families, and we have a proven track record of holding automotive manufacturers accountable for their defective vehicles.
Contact the Ammons Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
*******
The Ammons Law Firm represents clients nationwide in rollover accidents involving SUVs and trucks that result in serious injury or death.
Disclaimer: This post is not legal advice. Information contained in this blog was compiled from third-party sources or is the opinion of the author. Please inform us immediately if false or misleading information is contained in this post.
