A rear-end accident with the words, "improving the rearview."

According to a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, 29% of all accidents are rear-end accidents. Even with the introduction of newer technology, such as a rear-view camera, rear-end accidents are still widely common around the United States. How can drivers protect themselves from rear-end accidents? The team at the Hernandez Law Group, P.C. has some tips on how to improve the rear-view and decrease your chances of backing into another driver.

Hazards to Consider When Backing Up

In parking lots and driveways, there are a ton of obstacles that could potentially get into the path of your vehicle. From people to poles, trees, and even the occasional shopping cart, it is important to be aware of your surroundings when backing up. Here are some other hazards to consider.

Inadequate Clearance: Poor parking jobs can create inadequate room to back up correctly.

Objects, Animals, or People: Always look behind you before reversing your vehicle. Individuals, items like shopping carts, or animals such as a dog, could be behind your vehicle.

Moving Vehicles or People: When you are in a busy parking lot or parking garage, it is always important to continuously check for vehicles and pedestrians. Don’t assume pedestrians or other vehicles will stop. Be patient and backup when the coast is clear.

Blind Spots: All vehicles have natural blind spots, and drivers should know where they are and how to see around them to prevent an accident.

Poor Directions From Spotters or Ground Guides: You might rely on spotters at some events or parking lots. Remember, double-check yourself before following their directions. Unfortunately, human error occurs and a second pair of eyes never hurt.

In this same regard, be careful of backup cameras. Dirt, water droplets, rain, and misreading the camera can cause you to miss vital information if you rely solely on it. Technology is great, but you should also trust your intuition.

Tips to Avoid Rear-End Accidents

Don’t Back Up Until You Are Sure the Coast Is Clear: Remember to both left and right and then directly behind you before backing up.

If You Are In a Tight Spot, Use a Spotter: Sometimes it is completely impossible to avoid those tight situations where backing up is incredibly difficult. A spotter can help you better determine where your car is in comparison to obstacles. This will help you avoid backing up into a vehicle, obstacle, or individual.

Make Use of All Mirrors and Cameras: While we always stress looking with your own eyes, there are just some things you won’t be able to see. Mirrors and cameras are great for improving your sight and catching things you might have missed.

If You Have a Home with a Driveway Connected to a Busy Road, Always Back In: It is easier to back in and then pulls out of a driveway on a busy road than it is to simply back out. Backing into your driveway gives you better visibility for the next time you need to hit the road.

Always Ensure Your Backup Lights Are Working Properly: Sometimes accidents happen because the reverse lights were not working properly. Always check to make sure your lights are working properly before operating your vehicle.

Never Speed Out of a Spot: Always back up slowly. Moving too quickly will reduce your reaction time should an obstacle get in your way.

If You Have Been In a Backing Accident, Contact Our Team

If you have been the victim of a backing accident, you may be entitled to compensation for damages and medical expenses. While not all backing accidents may produce serious injury, the damage to property can leave you with expensive bills. Don’t be the victim of another’s negligence and contact the dedicated car accident attorneys at the Hernandez Law Group, P.C. today!