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Backing Safely
Because you cannot see everything behind your vehicle,
backing is always dangerous. Avoid backing whenever you
can. When you park, try to park so you will be able to pull
forward when you leave. When you have to back, here are
a few simple safety rules:
• Look at your path.
• Warn others of your intention.
• Back slowly.
• Back and turn toward the driver’s side whenever possible.
• Use a helper whenever possible.
These rules are discussed in turn below.
Look at Your Path. Look at your line of travel before
you begin. Get out and walk around the vehicle. Check your
clearance to the sides and overhead in and near the path
your vehicle will take. Warn others of your intention. Always
turn on 4-way flashers before starting to back. Tap the
horn as a warning before starting to back unless the vehicle
is equipped wtih an operating backup warning device.Back
Slowly. Always back as slowly as possible. Use the lowest
reverse gear. That way you can more easily correct any steering
errors. You also can stop quickly if necessary. Back and
Turn Toward the Driver’s Side. Back to the driver’s side
so you can see better.
Backing toward the right side is
very dangerous because you can’t see as well. If you back
and turn toward the driver’s side, you can watch the rear
of your vehicle by looking out the side window. Use driver-side
backing — even if it means going around the block to put
your vehicle in this position. The added safety is worth
it. Use a Helper.
Use a helper when you can.
There are blind spots you can’t see.
The helper should stand near the back of your vehicle where
you can see the helper.
Before you begin backing, work out a set of hand signals
that you both understand. Agree on a signal for "stop".
Helper and driver must be able to see one another in the
mirror.
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