Drivers reminded to be cautious when backing up
With so many children excited to ride their new bikes, toys, and rollerskates, drivers need to remember to be extra cautious before throwing the car into reverse.
“This is that time of year kids are going to be very excited out on our neighborhood streets,” said Doug Shupe, a spokesperson for the Auto Club of Southern California.
According to KidsandCars.org, approximately 50 children each week are backed over by a vehicle in the United States. Over 70% of those accidents happen when a parent or relative is behind the wheel, and despite many cars now having rearview cameras, experts say that doesn’t always help.
Just like side mirrors, backup cameras have blind spots. Research from AAA shows that rearview cameras only increase visibility by 46%.
“There is no substitute for drivers actually walking around their vehicle, checking to make sure that there are no objects or children behind the vehicle,” Shupe said.
Local teachers are also urging parents to have these conversations with their kids and set a good example when it comes to safety around cars.
“It’s important because if the parents don’t follow the instructions, why would the kids or students?,” said Nathalie Lupercio, a teacher at Two Bunch Palms Elementary School.
“Just a little bit of prevention can go a long way,” Shupe said.
These kinds of accidents are 100% preventable. AAA also wants to remind drivers to keep the lens on your backup camera clean and to roll down your windows when in reverse so you can listen to your surroundings.
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