Many new car models come equipped with rearview/backup cameras, and for good reason: KidsandCars.org claims that thousands of children per year are seriously injured or killed by a reversing vehicle when the driver’s visibility was restricted.
It’s important to remember that all drivers have blind spots in their vehicles, as well as a blind-zone, which is the area behind the vehicle that the driver cannot see through the rear- and side-view mirrors; KidsandCars.org estimates this space to be 15 to 25 feet. Height can also be a factor, as shorter height typically increases the blind-zone. “Backover accidents” are most common in parking lots and driveways and, sadly, the driver is a parent or close relative of the victim in about 7% of these accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also estimates that backover accidents result in about 15,000 injuries and 210 fatalities per year.
Here are some safety tips when your vehicle is in reverse:
– Walk around and behind the vehicle to ensure the path is clear. – Be sure you know where any children are in the area, such as in the street or on sidewalks. – Be sure your children understand that parked cars can start moving unexpectedly and that drivers cannot always see what is behind them. Also remind them never to play directly behind parked vehicles. – Keep toys and sports equipment out of the driveway. – When reversing, it can help to roll down your window to hear if somebody warns you to stop.
Although backup cameras in vehicles are not yet completely foolproof, there is some good news that a “final ruling” issued by the NHTSA will require all new vehicles to have rear-visibility technology by May 2018. In the meantime, this new technology is rapidly improving and holds great promise for reducing multiple types of auto accidents in the future, especially in larger vehicles with accordingly-larger blind spots.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to negligence, contact America’s Consumer Lawyer for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, America’s Consumer Lawyer is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.
