Over the last several years, new cars have become equipped with some incredible safety features. This technology has had an instant impact on the number of accidents that occur on our roads. In fact, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, rear automatic braking has been linked to a reduction in backup accidents – by as much as 62%. When you combine this technology with rearview cameras and other backup sensors – the rate of backup accidents is reduced by 78%.
Beginning in May 2018, all new cars in the United States are required to come standard with rearview cameras. Yet, some manufacturers are even going further to promote safety by installing backup warning sensors and reverse automatic braking on their new vehicles. The combination of these technological features will reduce the amount of property damage, as well as the number of people killed in tragic backup accidents.
Backup Accidents are Tragic
Sadly, children are the ones most vulnerable to backup accidents. Their small frame makes it nearly impossible to see when backing a car out of a driveway or out of a parking spot. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are at least 500,000 backup accidents each and every year. These accidents lead to 15,000 injuries and 210 fatalities. Most of these fatalities are children under the age of 5 years old, as well as elderly people over the age of 70.
Further Reading: Developing Chronic Pain After a Car Accident
Reducing Backup Accidents
While most cars now come equipped with state of the art safety technology, there are other ways to reduce the likelihood of a backup accident. Before leaving your driveway or a parking spot, check the back of the car to make sure there aren’t any small children, toys or pets behind the vehicle. When you do begin to backup, check all mirrors throughout the process and go slowly. Know where your vehicle’s blind spots are located and the distance they cover. If you are able, roll down your window before backing up. This can alert you to a sudden change in your environment, such as a kid riding by on their bike or a mother yelling for her runaway toddler. Using safe backing procedures can help you avoid a tragic car accident and truly save a life.
Contact Our Pueblo Car Accident Lawyers
If you or someone you love is injured in a car accident in Pueblo or anywhere in the state of Colorado, you are not alone. The law is on your side. An experienced Pueblo car accident lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you deserve after a devastating accident. Call Pueblo attorneys at Smith & Smith, today for a FREE CONSULTATION – (719) 544-0062.
