What is a common cause of rollovers in commercial vehicles?

High centers of gravity combined with sharp turns is a well-documented cause of rollovers in commercial vehicles. When a vehicle has a high center of gravity, it becomes more susceptible to tipping over, especially during tight maneuvers. This is particularly true for vehicles like trucks and buses that may have a significant amount of cargo height, making them top-heavy.

When a vehicle makes a sharp turn, the forces acting on the vehicle can shift its balance. If the turning force exceeds the lateral stability provided by the vehicle's weight distribution, it can lead to a loss of balance and result in a rollover. This risk is heightened in vehicles that carry a cargo load located high above the vehicle's base, which significantly raises the center of gravity and decreases overall stability.

Understanding this dynamic is crucial for drivers of commercial vehicles to ensure safe operation, especially when navigating turns, intersections, or winding roads, which require careful handling and awareness of the vehicle’s characteristics.