Reducing truck backing up accidents

Backing accidents—sometimes referred to as backover accidents—occur when a vehicle strikes another vehicle, object, or person while the driver is backing up. They’re also the most common type of commercial vehicle accidents.

Tractor trailer backing accidents happen for a variety of reasons, so it’s important to know basic strategies for avoiding them. You’ve likely already received some form of backing safety training throughout your career, but it’s helpful to remember these best practices:

First and foremost, consider alternatives to backing your vehicle. Could you park in a different location or go around the building to reapproach? If you must back up, go slowly, be cautious, and follow these steps:

• Look for people, fixed objects, tree branches, overhead wires, or other obstacles in your path

• Make sure you have enough room to maneuver

• Check clearance on all sides

• Note any lanes that cars or people could use behind your vehicle

Things can change quickly, so once you’re back in the drivers’ seat, keep a constant eye on your mirrors—even after you’ve gotten out to look around. A pedestrian could have suddenly walked behind you or another vehicle could have pulled up.

Have a coworker or other trained individual guide you while backing up. Having another set of eyes outside of the vehicle can be invaluable.

If possible, try to limit the distance you’ll need to back up. This limits the variables in your surroundings that could contribute to an accident.

Backing up around a corner makes it impossible to get a clear view of your surroundings in the moment.

Also, a small convex mirror can help to greatly reduce blind spots.

Don’t underestimate the power of on-board technology in helping prevent backing up accidents. Encourage your employer to consider these tools if they aren’t already present:

• Backup cameras

• Automatic reverse braking systems

• Alert systems, such as proximity sensors

Visit our website for additional general safety tips for truck drivers.