9 Safety Rules To Reduce Risk Of Accidents From Reversing Vehicles
Every year, reversing accidents injure and kill people. Reversing into a driveway, out of a parking space or garage, or around a corner is a common maneuver. However, not paying attention while reversing can have devastating consequences.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2017, there were 84,000 reported backing accidents in the United States. Of those, 15,000 resulted in injuries, and 210 were fatal. In this blog post, we will discuss 9 safety rules you can follow to reduce the risk of an accident while reversing your vehicle.
9 Safety Rules To Reduce Risk Of Accidents From Reversing Vehicles
Despite the many advances in vehicle safety, reversing accidents remains a leading cause of injury in the workplace. To reduce the number of reversing accidents, it is important to understand the causes and implement effective control measures. Following are a few safety rules to reduce the risk of accidents from reversing vehicles.
1. Avoidance Of Reversing By Implementing One-way Traffic Systems
Reversing into a parking spot or driveway can be tricky, and it’s all too easy to misjudge the distance and end up hitting another car. That’s why many savvy drivers opt to avoid reversing altogether by driving in and out of parking spots in a one-way direction. Not only does this eliminate the risk of accidents, but it also saves time and hassle. Of course, one-way systems can’t be implemented everywhere, but they can be effective in reducing the risk of accidents in areas where reversing is common. So if you’re looking to avoid a fender bender, consider implementing a one-way traffic system. It just might save you from a costly repair bill.
2. Segregation Of Pedestrians And Vehicles Or The Provision Of Refuge Areas
Every year, thousands of people are injured in accidents involving reversing vehicles. In many cases, these accidents could be prevented if pedestrians and vehicles were segregated or provided refuge areas. Separating pedestrians from vehicles greatly reduces the risk of a collision. Similarly, by providing refuge areas, pedestrians have a safe place to wait while a vehicle reverses. As a result, segregation and the provision of refuge areas can play an important role in reducing the risk of accidents from reversing vehicles.
3. Good Vehicle Selection So That Drivers Have Adequate Visibility
The best way to avoid these accidents is to select a vehicle with good rear visibility. This means choosing a vehicle with large windows and a high seating position. It also means avoiding vehicles with thick pillars or small windows. By considering these factors, drivers can decrease the risk of accidents when reversing their vehicles. In addition, they can also make life easier for themselves by choosing a vehicle that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
4. Provision Of Audible Reversing Alarms And Flashing Beacons
The provision of audible reversing alarms and flashing beacons can reduce the risk of accidents from reversing vehicles. It has been estimated that as many as 25% of all vehicle-related accidents yearly are due to reversing vehicles. In many cases, these accidents could have been prevented if the driver had been aware of pedestrians or other obstacles behind the vehicle. Audible reversing alarms and flashing beacons can help alert drivers to the presence of others in the area, reducing the risk of an accident. With these safety features, drivers can take precautions to avoid potential collisions, making our roads and highways safer for everyone.
5. Provision Of Mirrors At Blind Spots To See Approaching Pedestrians
When driving a car, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. This is especially true when you are backing up, as you may not be able to see everything behind you. However, blind spot mirrors can help to give you a better view of the area around your vehicle. These mirrors are designed to reflect the view from behind your car, making it easier to see approaching pedestrians. As a result, they can play an important role in preventing accidents. While blind spot mirrors are not a perfect solution, they can help make reversing safer for drivers and pedestrians.
6. Use Of High-visibility Clothing
Reversing vehicles is one of the leading causes of workplace accidents. In many cases, these accidents could be prevented if the driver wore high-visibility clothing. High-visibility clothing makes it easier for other workers to see the driver, which can help avoid collisions. In addition, high-visibility clothing can also help to improve communication between the driver and other workers. This is especially important in noisy work environments, where verbal communication may be difficult. By wearing high-visibility clothing, drivers can reduce the risk of accidents and improve safety for themselves and others.
7. Ensuring That The Area Is Well Lit
Ensuring that the area is well-lit can help to reduce the risk of accidents by making it easier for drivers to see what is behind them. In addition, good lighting can also help to improve visibility for pedestrians, who may otherwise be unaware of oncoming traffic. By taking simple measures to improve lighting, we can help to make our roads and parking areas safer for everyone.
8. Provision Of Banksmen
The provision of banksmen can reduce the risk of accidents from reversing vehicles. They provide a visible warning to other road users that a vehicle is reversing, and they can help to guide the vehicle if necessary. Banksmen can also help to ensure that pedestrians and cyclists are aware of the reversing vehicle and stay clear of its path. In addition, they can provide guidance to the driver on how to reverse safely and effectively. As a result, the provision of banksmen can play an important role in reducing the risk of accidents from reversing vehicles.
9. Training For Drivers And Pedestrians Working In The Area
One way to reduce the risk of accidents from reversing vehicles is to provide training for both drivers and pedestrians working in the area. Drivers can learn proper mirror usage and safety procedures, while pedestrians can be taught to be more aware of their surroundings. In addition, clear signage and markings can help to remind everyone to be cautious when reversing. By taking these steps, we can make our streets safer for everyone.
All control measures should also be maintained in good order. This may require routine inspection regimes, cleaning regimes, and repair/replacement as necessary. It will usually be necessary to develop safe work systems for vehicle operations. These safe systems should identify the site procedures and rules that must be followed.
