Backover Accidents

Lowell, Massachusetts Car Accident Lawyers

Putting your car in reverse can be one of the most dangerous things a driver can do. The reason is simple: there are many steps that need to be taken before backing up is safe. That’s why backing up can cause car accidents. Even at low speeds, being hit by a car backing up can cause catastrophic injuries, especially to childrenand the elderly.

Ways to Prevent Backover Accidents:

Almost every backover accident is preventable. That’s why important to follow these steps before you put your car in reverse:

• Don’t Rely On Your Mirrors: Mirrors can be a helpful tool to use when you’re backing up. But, you can’t rely only on your mirrors. Whether it’s the rear view mirror or the two side mirrors, there are multiple blind spots. That means you’re only getting a partial view of what’s behind you. With that in mind, it’s important to turn your head and actually look behind you, while also using any additional safety mechanisms that come with your vehicle.
• Look at Your Surroundings Before Getting in the Car: Once you get in your car, you’re limited to what you can see from where you are sitting. While you’re able to see most things, you can’t see everything. Every car has a blind spot that could be hiding someone you didn’t know was there. That’s why it’s important to survey the scene before you get in your car to see if there are any hazards to be on the lookout for once you get ready to back up.
• Use the Rearview Camera, But Also Look For Yourself: Cameras placed on the rear of your car can be a helpful tool to see what is behind you. This is especially true for drivers with mobility problems that keep them from getting a good view on their own. However, these cameras don’t’ see everything, and only by turning around and looking for yourself can you be sure that it’s safe to proceed,
• Watch Out for Children: Children are most vulnerable to a vehicle that’s backing up. Part of the reason is that it can sometimes be difficult to see a small child. This is especially true in trucks, SUVs, and other larger vehicles. Part of the reason is that children aren’t usually looking out for cars that are backing up, and are unable to appreciate the risks.
• Put Down Your Phone: How often do you see someone backing up while trying to put an address into a phone to get directions or start a playlist or podcast to listen to? All the while, the driver is oblivious to someone who would have been easy to see if the driver was simply paying attention.

Experienced Car Accident Attorneys

If you, a loved one, or especially your child was injured by a car that was backing up, your first instinct was probably to ask the driver why he or she didn’t see the person behind the car. Unfortunately, the obvious answer is usually the right answer: they weren’t looking where they were going.

At Marcotte Law Firm, we have represented countless adults and children who have been injured in car accidents by cars that are backing up. Whether it’s in a commercial parking lot, residential apartment, or even backing up out of a private driveway, drivers are required to look out and see everything that is happening around them. If they hit you, it’s likely they weren’t doing what they were supposed to be doing.

If you’ve been injured in a backover accident, call the car accident lawyers at Marcotte Law Firm for a free consultation.