Backing incidents can account for up to half of all reportable fleet incidents.
Virtually all backing collisions are preventable, though. We drive in reverse only a fraction of the distance that we go in the forward direction yet it seems that backing in a serious problem in most fleets.
Q: Why do you think there are so any backing incidents?
Answers may be:
• Drivers are unskilled at backing.
• Visibility is poor and it’s therefore easier to miss seeing a hazard.
• Drivers in a hurry and fail to take the time to ensure no hazards.
• Driver was backing in a situation where it could have been avoided.
• Driver was going too fast to properly control vehicle.
• Drivers fail to walk around the vehicle to check for hazards.
• Other reasons?
Backing incidents at best are expensive but at worst can end up as fatalities. Not only on the job, but also at home. Across North America every year, more than 250 children are killed in the driveways of their own homes in back-over incidents where a parent, relative or friend backs up while the child is behind the vehicle and can’t be seen. Even if you don’t have small children of your own, are there any kids in your neighborhood?
Q: How many of us have jumped into the car or truck and just backed out of the driveway without looking behind first?
How many have run over a bicycle or child’s toy in the driveway?
9 tips to avoid backing incidents:
Practical challenge:
For the next week:
Walk around your vehicle before moving it from a parked position. Limit your backing using good pre-planning and back into parking spots when necessary.