Common Causes of Truck Rollover Accidents

Truck rollover accidents are among the most catastrophic events on our highways. Whether it’s a big rig overturning on the I-10 bridge in Baton Rouge or a semi-truck rolling on the I-12 corridor, these accidents can result in devastating injuries and significant damages. In Louisiana, truck rollover accidents often lead to life-altering consequences for victims and their families.

If you’ve been involved in a truck rollover accident, understanding the common causes of these incidents and the evolving legal landscape is essential. Our experienced Louisiana truck accident lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of seeking compensation and protecting your rights.

Louisiana Truck Rollover Accidents: What You Need to Know

Truck rollover accidents, despite the same fundamental causes, are increasingly influenced by modern safety technologies, regulations, and the evolving legal system. Here are the common causes contributing to these devastating accidents in Louisiana:

1. Driver Error & FMCSA Violations

Driver error remains the number one cause of truck rollover accidents. In Louisiana, distracted driving, speeding, fatigue, and driving under the influence are frequent culprits behind rollovers. Additionally, as of 2026, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has heightened its focus on driver violations. By analyzing Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data, we can prove:

• Hours of Service (HOS) Violations: Fatigued drivers often lose control, especially on sharp curves.
• Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse Violations: Stricter reporting requirements make it easier to prove if a trucking company hired a driver with a prohibited status.

2. Failure to Use or Maintain Stability Technology (AEB & ESC)

The use of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems is now a critical safety requirement for trucks. If a trucking company disables these systems or fails to maintain them to cut costs, they may be liable for preventable negligence. These systems help prevent rollovers, especially on wet or icy roads.

3. Improper Cargo Loading & High Center of Gravity

Improperly loaded cargo, particularly in the timber and oil industries, frequently causes truck rollovers. A truck with an unbalanced load or a liquid surge in tankers is at greater risk of tipping. Louisiana’s truck accident lawyers often hold third-party cargo loaders responsible alongside trucking companies for improper loading practices.

4. Defective Truck Parts & Vehicle Malfunctions

Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and steering failures are serious contributors to truck rollover accidents. Trucks must undergo regular maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. When maintenance is neglected or defective parts cause an accident, the trucking company and maintenance providers may be held liable.

If you’ve been injured in a truck rollover accident, having an experienced lawyer on your side can be crucial. They can help identify all the contributing factors and hold all parties responsible for your injuries.

What is the Most Common Cause of a Rollover Accident?

The most common cause of truck rollover accidents is driver error.

Consequences of a Semi-Truck Rollover Accident

Truck rollovers can slow down traffic for everyone on the road, but usually, they don’t involve any other vehicles. However, when other drivers get caught up in a truck rollover, it can be really dangerous, and people are more likely to die compared to other types of traffic accidents.

It’s crazy to think that even small trucks like garbage, cement, and dump trucks weigh way more than the average car! All that extra weight means a much stronger impact during a rollover, which can cause a ton of damage to other vehicles and result in:

• Injuries: Truck rollover accidents can cause serious injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
• Fatalities: In some cases, these types of accidents can result in fatalities. This is especially true when the accident involves a passenger vehicle.

How to Reduce the Causes of Truck Rollover Accidents

• Driver Training: Proper driver training can help prevent truck rollover accidents. This includes training on defensive driving, fatigue management, and load securement.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Regular vehicle maintenance can help prevent truck rollover accidents. This includes checking tire pressure, brake pads, and steering components.
• Route Planning: Proper route planning can also help prevent truck rollover accidents. This includes avoiding routes with steep inclines or sharp curves.

Taking Action After You’ve Been Hurt

A semi-truck rollover can cause life-altering injuries and financial ruin. While trucking companies carry high-limit insurance, their legal teams work aggressively to minimize payouts under Louisiana’s Comparative Fault rules.

To secure full compensation for medical bills and lost wages, an experienced Louisiana personal injury attorney will:

• Preserve Critical Evidence: Secure “Black Box” (ECM) and ELD data before it is deleted.
• Combat Defense Tactics: Prevent insurers from unfairly blaming you for more than 50% of the crash, which would legally bar you from recovery.
• Negotiate High-Stakes Claims: Level the playing field against corporate legal teams so you can focus on healing.

Contact Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys for Help Today!

If you have suffered injuries after involvement in a truck rollover accident, you could have a claim against the truck driver and/or trucking company to recover compensation for your injuries.

Contact an experienced Baton Rouge truck accident lawyer as soon as possible, so they can evaluate your claim and advise you on the best path forward for your circumstances.