One of the most dangerous things that any driver can do is simply to drive in reverse. Backing up is disproportionately dangerous. It leads to numerous accidents, injuries and even deaths every year.
Consider the fact that someone may drive thousands of miles over the course of a year. Many people drive 10,000 miles or more, which is why car leases will start around this number. At the same time, the average person probably drives in reverse for under a mile annually. Most of the time, they’re just backing up for a few meters to get out of a parking spot or a driveway.
However, this short amount of time spent backing up leads to about 25% of car accidents that happen in the United States. This shows that driving in reverse is disproportionately risky and that drivers, pedestrians and cyclists all need to understand this risk.
The implementation of backup cameras
Some steps have been taken to reduce the number of accidents that occur. For example, backup cameras are now standard equipment. They used to be an option that people could choose if they wanted, and many people would buy them because a backup camera made it easier to parallel park or tow a trailer. But it became clear very quickly that backup cameras were preventing numerous accidents and keeping people safe, so now they have to be included on all new vehicles.
That does not mean that these accidents no longer happen. Older vehicles don’t have cameras, and even drivers who are using new technology can still make mistakes. Those who have been injured in these accidents need to know exactly what legal options they have.