Kids and backover accidents

Automakers' focus on vehicle safety has changed from crashworthiness (i.e. being able to survive crashes) to crash avoidance (i.e. being able to stay away from accidents). To that end, new technology is being offered on new models that include, proximity sensors on front and rear bumpers, and backup cameras that give a driver a view of what is directly behind the vehicle.

Both are important innovations in crash safety for they help Houston drivers who may not see another car coming (such as in a crowded parking lot). More importantly, they help prevent one of the most unfortunate, yet common accidents: backover accidents involving children. These are incidents when a driver coming out of a driveway or parking spot hits a child that they did not know was there.

According to KidsandCars.org, at least 50 children across the U.S. are injured each week as a result of backover accidents. A large majority of such accidents involve the child's parent or caretaker. Further, at least two American children are killed each week due to backover accidents.

Fortunately, there is a way for parents in Houston to avoid these accidents, even if you don't have a backup camera installed on your vehicle. First, teaching children that parked cars may move is good idea, and that cars do not make good hiding spaces. Second, drivers can make sure to do a quick walk around to make sure nothing is behind the car before backing out. Further, they can ensure that children are in full view before backing out.

Ultimately, drivers have a duty to use reasonable care while driving, and this includes backing out of a driveway.

Source: KidsandCars.org, Backovers