18-Year-Old Killed in Rollover Crash in San Benito

Rollover accidents are some of the most dangerous crashes one can be in. Between being thrown around the vehicle and the risk of being ejected, these crashes frequently cause serious injury or death. 

Our McAllen car accident attorney at the Villalobos Law Firm goes over one such case, including important statistics and safety tips.

The Cameron County Accident

An 18-year-old was killed in the early morning of Monday, June 26, after being in a rollover crash. The accident happened on the 600 block of S. McCulloch Street in San Benito just after 2 a.m.

For unspecified reasons, the 20-year-old driver of a Cadillac Escalade lost control of the vehicle before crashing and rolling over, stopping in front of a residence. First responders found the driver a few feet away from the mangled car and he was able to confirm what occurred. 

The 18-year-old victim was found in the back of the vehicle. He was unresponsive and declared dead at the scene. The driver was taken to Valley Baptist Medical Center for treatment for his serious injuries.

The case is still under investigation.

The Facts About Rollovers

Rollover car accidents are uniquely dangerous to anyone in the vicinity of the crash. The powerful forces necessary to flip a car mean that these crashes tend to be more serious — especially when the driver or passengers are unrestrained. 

Consider the following statistics:

• Two-thirds of people killed in rollover crashes were unrestrained and were completely ejected during the crash
• Most fatal rollovers only involved a single vehicle
• Tall vehicles like 15-seater passenger vans, light trucks, and SUVs are more likely to roll in an accident 
• Most rollovers happen in areas where the speed limit is higher
• Rollovers make up about a fifth of all traffic fatalities

Tips for Avoiding Rollover Accidents

It isn’t always possible to eliminate the possibility of being in a car accident, but you can reduce the risk. If you want to avoid a rollover, the single biggest safety tip is to choose the right vehicle. Vehicles with a low center of gravity are less likely to roll while taller vehicles like off-road SUVs, light trucks, and vans are all at higher risk of rolling.

Understandably, buying a safer vehicle isn’t always an option, but there are additional steps you can take to better protect yourself and others on the road:  

• Take turns more slowly
• If your vehicle is moving sideways, shift to neutral and take your foot off the gas before trying to steer where you want to go
• Be careful in tall vehicles during high winds
• Watch out on sloped roads
• Never drive intoxicated
• Reduce your speed if the road is wet or icy
• Always wear your seatbelt and make sure your passengers do as well

Were you or a loved one the victim of a car accident? Reach out for your free case review and see what the Villalobos Law Firm can do for you!

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Source: KRGV