Guilford Accidents Largely Blamed on Unsafe Backing

From the Guilford Police Department:

A recent look at the traffic accidents in Guilford has revealed that a large percentage of the accidents are caused by unsafe backing.

According to the National Safety Council, 1 out of every 4 vehicle accidents is blamed on unsafe backing.

Considering that the average driver operates in reverse less than a mile annually, this statistic proves to be even more alarming. Over 500 deaths and over 15,000 injuries are caused by unsafe backing annually which is why the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation, has compiled a few tips aimed at preventing backing collisions.

Back up cameras and back up alarms have begun to decrease these numbers, but practicing a few of these tips while parking will likely decrease your chances of being involved in a backing collision. Feel free to pass this advice along to your friends and family.

1. Get to know a vehicle’s blind spots. Remember that mirrors can never give the whole picture when backing.
2. Think in advance. Don’t put yourself in unnecessary backing situations.
3. Park defensively. Choose easy-exit parking spaces that don’t crowd neighboring vehicles. Park in the center of your parking space.
4. If needed, take extra measures when parking in an alley. Again, this involves thinking ahead. If an alley doesn’t permit driving all the way through or room to turn around, you should back into the alley parking space (assuming this complies with local ordinances). That way, when you leave you can drive forward to pull into the street.
5. Perform a walk-around. Walking around a vehicle gives you a firsthand view of the backing area and will alert you to any limitations or hazards. Check for children, soft or muddy areas, potholes, tire hazards and other dangers.
6. Know the clearances. When performing a walk-around, check for obstructions, low-hanging trees and wires, and any other potential clearance-related problems.
7. Remember that every backing situation is new and different. You may back out of the same spot day after day, but don’t allow yourself to get complacent and relax. Be watchful each time for changes and new obstacles.
8. Use a spotter. Don’t be afraid to ask for someone’s help when backing if needed. Use hand signals you’ve both agreed upon. Don’t have the spotter walking backwards while giving instructions.
9. After finishing the walk-around, don’t delay. Return to the vehicle and start backing within a few seconds. This will allow very little time for people or obstacles to change behind the vehicle. Backing without a spotter should only take place after you have as much information about the area as possible. A backup alarm can help warn away pedestrians and drivers of other vehicles who may try to enter the area you’re backing into.

Please drive carefully and, as always, please feel free to contact the Guilford Police Department with any questions.