Accidents involving tractor rollovers are amid the highest reasons behind farm and agricultural fatalities. Around 80 percent of accidents resulting in injury on farms stem from a tractor incident, and many of those include a rollover. Operators can take precautions to decrease the risk of rolling over, such as maintaining a slow speed, making turns and maneuvers slowly, refraining from making turns while moving uphill, and gaining a solid command over the vehicle through practice prior to operating it in a working environment. Outside of a driver’s operation, the most efficient measure to prevent rollovers is known as a Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS).
The structure is basically a specially designed metal bar that protects the rider in the event that the tractor tips over. After being manufactured, an ROPS is put through thorough tests by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers to verify that the unit will sustain numerous levels of impact on the shielded area around the operator. Be sure to confirm a valid certification for a ROPS with the dealer. Homespun apparatus used as a substitute are not adequate and can even put an operator in additional peril due to amateur design defects or installation flaws. In combination with a ROPS system, tractor operators must use safety belts at all times to ensure protection in an accident.
Owners should retrofit older tractors with ROPS, with an authorized dealer serving as a guide for installation. While the price may seem high at first glance, don’t allow that to dissuade you, a program exists to help subsidize payments and provide assistance on cost, installation, and as much as $765 in rebate, also including shipping.
Have you been injured in a tractor rollover accident? Call (405) 705-5050 to speak with the Oklahoma personal injury attorneys with Maples Law Firm to discuss your case today.
