Safe driving is mostly attitude—attitude—attitude.

Leave ego, macho behavior, and humility in the glove box.

Park and back defensively.

When in doubt, do not back up.

Position yourself so backing up is unnecessary whenever possible.

Avoid backing if you do not have to.

Always be aware of blind spots while backing.

Every backing situation is different; adjust accordingly.

Plan your backing to minimize the distance required.

Back toward the driver’s side of the truck if possible.

Get out and look before backing.

Check for all types of obstacles, including overhead hazards.

Begin backing immediately after checking.

If your truck lacks a back-up alarm, sound your horn before and periodically during backing.

Continuously check mirrors on both sides while backing.

Use a spotter if available.

Eliminate noise and distractions while backing—open windows, stop irrelevant conversations, and turn down radios, CBs, stereos, or other devices.

Back slowly in the lowest gear possible.

Start backing from a proper position.

Back into parking lot spaces so you can drive out facing forward, or drive through entirely if possible.

When parallel parking, leave enough space in front to avoid backing when exiting.