Report outlines studies into the heavy duty vehicles rollover,
particularly those transporting flammable or hazardous materials.
Studies looked into~
~frequency of overturning.
~types of vehicles involved.
~analysis of accident development.
~interest in improving resistance to overturning.
Data shows that of the accidents studied 26% of the vehicles
overturned prior to an impact or to leaving the road. Of these 19%
skidded or were involved in an evasive maneuver.
The study explores the influence of the following on
rollover:
~ dual wheels vs. single.
~ anti-roll bars.
~ height of trailer center of gravity.
~ longitudinal position of trailer center of gravity.
~ height of the fifth wheel saddle.
~ vehicle braking.
Mathematical models were developed for analysis and further
study.