BACKING ACCIDENTS ARE PREVENTABLE 

Operators need to ensure that “safety is in gear,” because as equipment size increases, so does the operator’s responsibility—and the rearward visibility decreases.

Accidents while backing vehicles happen for several reasons. Some may assume that because vehicles move slowly in reverse, injuries will be minor and damage limited. That’s not always true.

Many backing accidents occur because operators rely too heavily on mirrors. Even with well-positioned mirrors, blind spots remain on the sides and behind the vehicle. These blind spots can hide pedestrians, other vehicles, or obstacles, increasing the risk of collisions.

ALWAYS

• Make every effort to avoid backing whenever possible. Whenever you can, park so that you can pull forward into traffic.

• Choose a parking spot away from traffic and other vehicles to reduce the risk of a collision.

• Walk around your vehicle to check for people, obstacles, and clearance from other vehicles, both on the ground and overhead.

• Before backing, sound your horn with two quick beeps. Check your rear and side mirrors, watch side clearances, and back up slowly, keeping the vehicle under complete control.

NEVER

• Make “Y” turns in private driveways.

• Be in such a hurry that you skip stopping to look around your vehicle. Do not make sudden turns or maneuvers on a roadway to avoid backing.

HAZARDS TO LOOK FOR

• As the size of a vehicle increases, so do the operator’s blind spots.

• There is always the possibility of hidden hazards. Walk around the vehicle and check above, below, and all around.

• Consider installing backup cameras on your equipment.

• Use a spotter when appropriate, but take steps to ensure the spotter’s safety.

• Backing a vehicle or heavy equipment is often considered a true test of an operator’s skill.