Driving a vehicle in reverse is a difficult task when compared to simply driving forward. Drivers backing up have a limited range of vision, are forced to use both side and rear-view mirrors, and must operate the steering wheel in a different manner. Because of these factors and because there are many blind spots when backing up, crashes can easily occur when drivers don’t exercise appropriate caution or are otherwise negligent. If you’ve ever hit or run something over while backing up, you probably understand the dangers involved and the fact that it’s easy for errors to occur. For some, these errors can cause injuries that forever change a person’s life.

Many back-over accidents happen at low speeds, often in parking lots or on surface streets. In some cases, particularly when a driver is backing out onto a busy roadway, serious higher speed collisions can occur, including T-Bone accidents. Depending on the circumstances and where the impact takes place – such as on the driver’s side of the vehicle – these wrecks can result in serious, even catastrophic injuries. The same is true when drivers fail to see pedestrians while backing up, as children, bicyclists, and other passerby have virtually no protection.

Proper Caution Can Prevent Back-Over Wrecks

At The Daspit Law Firm, we have helped hundreds of victims after they were injured in car accidents, including wrecks involving cars backing out or driving in reverse. Because these wrecks can devastate the lives of the injured and their loved ones physically, financially, and emotionally, we want to make sure all drivers take proper care when backing up and know what how to avoid a preventable back-over accident.

1. Use all mirrors thoroughly before backing up. In some cases, a driver may be able to spot someone behind them purely by looking in all of their mirrors, both rear-view and side-view. This should be done BEFORE you reverse the vehicle, as well as during the act of reversing.
2. Take a look behind your car before you get inside. Take a look at what’s behind your vehicle and whether the path you intend to reverse in could be used by other vehicles or pedestrians BEFORE you get inside. You may also be able to see objects, children, or potential hazards that would otherwise get lost in blindspots.
3. Invest in a rear-view camera! If your vehicle has a rear-view camera or back-up detection technology, utilize it. If you have an older car, you can buy retro-fit rearview camera kits that are simple to install (some are wireless and can be installed on your license plate frame). These devices can help you easily spot someone behind your bumper quickly.
4. Reverse with the windows down and radio off. Driver distraction is one of the most common causes of car accidents. Don’t attempt to back-up while adjusting the radio and be sure to roll down your windows. Reducing distraction can help increase your awareness and ability to listen for anything that may be behind your car while reversing.
5. Use extra caution in high-risk areas. Busy streets, schools, construction sites, large parking lots, and even your own neighborhood are all places where back-over risks are high. Be extra cautious in these areas in particular, especially if your view of the road is blocked by parked cars. Don’t risk backing up unless you are absolutely certain the coast is clear

If you or someone you know has been injured in a back-over accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles with care, and when they are negligent, they can be held liable for victims’ damages, including their medical bills, pain and suffering, and emotional injuries.

The Daspit Law Firm has decades of combined experience helping injured auto accident victims navigate the personal injury claim process and has recovered millions of dollars in compensation on their behalves. To learn more about how we may be able to help you secure the medical care and compensation you deserve, contact us today for a FREE consultation.