Atropellar vs. arrollar
The Spanish words atropellar and arrollar both have the primary meaning of to run over, often conveying the idea of driving over something or someone, typically resulting in injury or damage. However, their use and connotations can vary in different contexts.
Atropellar
B1The word atropellar primarily refers to accidentally hitting a person or animal with a vehicle, causing harm or damage. It implies a lack of control or alertness on the part of the driver. Besides, this term may also express the metaphorical sense of disregarding or trampling over someone's rights or feelings.
El conductor ebrio atropelló a un peatón.
(The drunk driver ran over a pedestrian.)
Su jefe siempre la atropella y no respeta su opinión.
(Her boss always bulldozes her and doesn't respect her opinion.)
Arrollar
B2Arrollar has a broader scope that not only denotes running over something or someone but also represents an overpowering force - like a roller or wave sweeping away everything in its path. So it can suggest an intended dominance, superiority, victory, or forceful action.
El camión arrolló una valla de seguridad.
(The truck ran over a security fence.)
El equipo local arrolló al rival en el partido de fútbol.
(The local team steamrolled the opposition in the football match.)
La avalancha arrolló todo a su paso con una fuerza imparable.
(The avalanche swept away everything in its path with unstoppable force.)
Summary
Atropellar and arrollar both mean to run over but are used in somewhat different contexts. While atropellar typically refers to accidentally causing harm by hitting with a vehicle (also metaphorically implying disregard), arrollar can emphasize an imposing presence or action that overwhelms and crushes or drives everything before it.