Ford Escape Roof Crush
In 2000, Ford introduced the Ford Escape to fill the gap between their larger, truck-based SUVs such as the Explorer and Expedition and their smaller crossover line that includes the Edge and Flex. As a result, the compact crossover Ford Escape represents a sort of middle ground for motorists. Overall, the Escape is noticeably larger than similar vehicles by Toyota and Honda while maintaining a smaller profile than a mid-sized SUV.
History of the Ford Escape
After its 2000 debut, the Escape saw improved safety features in the seat belts and air bags in 2005 in addition to improvements on the all-wheel drive system. This system is responsible for maintaining control and stability in particularly dangerous weather or in off-road situations.
The second-generation Escape saw a significant improvement in safety in 2008. This model came standard with electronic stability control, which significantly reduces the possibility of the driver losing control in an emergency situation. However, this stability control system does not always result in significant improvements in some scenarios, and unfortunately, rollover risks still persist.
In 2004, the Ford Escape hybrid became one of the company’s most important hybrid offerings. This model had some problems with strong braking, however. This was, in large part, due to the vehicle’s regenerative braking system, which allowed the vehicle to generate electrical power while braking. However, the braking was improved with a 2009 update. This update also improved the stability of the Escape by adding an additional stabilizer to the vehicle.
While most of these updates have improved vehicle stability, the Ford Escape still has numerous problems when it comes to the risk of rollovers. Due to the taller design of this vehicle compared to sedans, the Escape still has a higher-than-usual chance of tipping over. In some cases, these accidents may worsen due to the roof caving into the passenger cabin in a catastrophe known as a roof crush.
Safety Ratings for the Ford Escape
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration rated the Ford Escape as three-of-five stars in the category of rollover risks. This means that the federal safety institution has found the Escape to still have a noticeable of rolling over. In fact, this vehicle shows similar ratings to some full-sized SUV offerings. With a higher likelihood of rolling over during a sharp turn or side impact accident, motorists may be at a similarly higher risk for a roof crush injury in a Ford Escape.
The Dangers of Roof Crush Accidents in Ford Escapes
Due to the tall profile and relatively narrow base of the Ford Escape, the center of gravity of the vehicle is much higher than that of smaller sedans or coupes. This means that Ford Escapes are more likely to tip over. As the vehicle tilts to the side during a sharp turn, emergency maneuver, or collision, its center of gravity can tip beyond its base, leading to a rollover. Once upside down, the weight of the vehicle crushes down on the roof support beams, which may not be strong enough to support this mass.
If these support beams give way, the roof can crush inwards into the passenger cabin, seriously injuring anyone inside. These injuries, known as roof crush injuries, often include severe head or neck trauma. This can result in permanent brain damage, nerve trauma, and other health concerns that may require long-term or even lifelong medical attention.
If you or someone you love has sustained an injury in a Ford Escape roof crush accident, our experienced and reliable legal advisors may be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your family’s options to fight for compensation. For additional information about this process, contact the Willis Law Firm by calling 800-883-9858 today.