The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word ROLLBAR
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
R
O
L
L
B
A
R
More clues leading to the result ROLLBAR
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "It might have saved someone turning over" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case it might have saved someone turning over = rollbar.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ROLLBAR mean?
ROLLBAR noun- A strong U-shaped bar fastened to the frame of a vehicle, such as an off-road vehicle or a race car to protect the driver and passengers from being crushed in the event that the vehicle rolls over.
- An anti-roll bar.