Backing up a truck is one of the most dangerous - and potentially expensive - maneuvers that truckers can do and can be overcome by the use of extra care and caution.
Backing events require extreme caution
- Backing accidents are the most frequent type of accidents in all of trucking
- If you must back up, GET OUT AND LOOK
- Check for proper clearance on all six sides: up, down, left, right, front, and rear
- Continue to GET OUT AND LOOK multiple times
- Don’t just think you’re clear, KNOW you’re clear: GET OUT AND LOOK
- Using a ground guide to assist is always a good idea
- Even with assistance, it is the driver’s responsibility to not strike anything
- GET OUT AND LOOK, even if a dozen people are flagging you back
Severe consequences may result from improper/ unsafe backing
- Backing into a fixed object, moving object and/or person
- Backing over a fixed object, moving object and/or person
- Pinning a person
- According to the National Safety Council, 1 out of 4 vehicle accidents can be attributed to poor backing techniques.
- Backing accidents cause 500 deaths and 15,000 injuries per year.
While You Are Backing
- Back from the driver’s side
- Minimize the distance you need to back. The less ground you cover in reverse; the less chances you will have striking a fixed object.
- Have patience & don’t rush
- No one ever made up time by backing quickly. Take a deep breath and commit yourself to perfect backing with no compromises.
- Slow movement helps you maintain full control of your vehicle and to correctly judge distances.
- Check all sides as you back
- Remember that there are 6 sides to your vehicle (back, front, both sides, above and below).
- Keep your eyes moving to ensure conditions have not changed.
- Use all of your resources and guides
- Use a spotter if someone is available. Be sure to keep your spotter in sight at all times.
- Make sure your mirrors are clean and in good positions to maximize the view around your vehicle – Know your blind spots!
- Roll down your window and listen to the environment around you.
- If you are unsure, G.O.A.L.
- If you begin backing and become unsure of your surroundings, get out and look again!
You, as the driver, are 100% responsible for safely backing your vehicle
- A driver should not and cannot blame a spotter, the vehicle mirrors, or a rearview camera on his/her backing mistakes.
- Never rely 100% on anything other than yourself. G.O.A.L – Get Out And Look.