MARION, Williamson County, Ill., Sept. 21, 2026 — A two-vehicle rollover crash closed the eastbound lanes of Illinois Route 13 at Route 148 Sunday afternoon, September 20, according to the report.
The crash involved two vehicles, at least one of which rolled over at the intersection, the report said. Minor injuries resulted from the collision.
Emergency crews remained at the scene. Drivers were asked to use alternate routes or expect delays while the roadway remained closed.
The cause of the crash has not been released, and the incident remains under investigation. Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
What Makes a Rollover Crash So Damaging
A rollover does more damage than a typical crash because the vehicle keeps moving and changing direction after the initial impact. Instead of one collision, there can be several as the vehicle tips, strikes the ground, and continues to turn. Each impact transfers force differently, and the roof and side pillars, areas not built to absorb the same load as the front or rear bumpers, often bear the brunt of it.
Roof strength matters because a roof designed to handle a moderate amount of crush can fail under repeated impacts, reducing the space inside the vehicle. Seat belts are the main defense in this scenario. A properly worn belt keeps an occupant positioned against the seat as the vehicle rotates, lowering the chance of being thrown against the roof or ejected through a window.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 33 percent of SUV-occupant fatalities occurred in vehicles that rolled over in 2023. That figure reflects how much the outcome of a rollover depends on factors like vehicle design and restraint use instead of the initial impact alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vehicles are most prone to rolling over?
Taller, narrower vehicles with a higher center of gravity, such as SUVs and pickup trucks, are more likely to roll over than lower, wider passenger cars.
Does wearing a seat belt actually change the outcome of a rollover?
Yes. A seat belt keeps an occupant in place as the vehicle rotates, which lowers the risk of being thrown against the roof or ejected, one of the more serious dangers in a rollover.
What is a "tripped" rollover?
It happens when a vehicle slides sideways and its tires catch on something, like a curb, soft shoulder, or guardrail, causing it to tip over. Most rollovers on public roads are tripped rather than caused by high-speed maneuvering alone.
What can drivers do to lower the chance of a rollover?
Maintaining proper tire pressure, avoiding sharp steering corrections, and slowing down before curves or lane changes all reduce the likelihood that a vehicle will tip.
What to Do After a Rollover Crash in Marion, Illinois
If you're involved in a rollover crash, stay as still as possible until you can assess whether it's safe to move, and call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, it's worth getting checked by a medical professional, since impacts from a rollover can cause injuries that aren't immediately obvious.
Move to a safe location away from traffic if you're able to, and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. If emergency crews are on scene, follow their instructions, especially if a roadway closure is in effect and traffic is being rerouted. Keep any documentation from the responding agency, and follow up with your own doctor in the days afterward if anything feels off.
