Common Sense Method to Backing Up a Car

How do you back up a car? Put the car in reverse and press the accelerator. That statement may seem simple enough, but there's much more to backing up a car. Many accidents could be prevented if drivers would insert a few more steps into the backing up process.

~Outside the Car

Before you even unlock your car doors, check around and under your car for any obstructions. This step is especially important if children and pets are nearby. Look for other vehicles, even though this may be obvious, you'd be surprised at the number of fender benders that occur before a driver even leaves their drive way. For your safety and that of others, check the environment outside your car before you even open the car door.

~Indoor Checks

Once you're inside your car, there are still more checks to be made before you can safely back up. First and foremost, buckle up. Should you get in an accident, your seat belt will reduce and possibly prevent injuries.

Crank your car and check your rearview and side mirrors before you put the car in reverse. If you're clear, it's time to shift into reverse. However, reverse doesn't mean warp speed. Remember - cars are meant to be driven forward, not backwards. This means back up slowly. You can't see as well driving backwards and forwards, so be careful.

~Don't Stop Watching

Just because you've checked and started backing up, doesn't mean you're in the clear. Taking your eyes away for a second could spell disaster. Think of how many accidents occur when a driver is distracted by a cell phone, MP3 player or radio. The same applies to backing up. Continue watching over your shoulder and checking your mirrors until you've finished backing up.

~Merge into Traffic Quickly

Many people back their cars out of drive-ways and straight into traffic. You should only back out into a road if the path is clear and you have plenty of time to merge safely. As soon as you have backed safely into the roadway, come to a complete stop and shift into drive quickly. The longer you sit idle in the middle of the road, the more likely someone will either hit you or want to hit you for forcing them to a halt.

Backing up may seem like a very simple process, especially if you do it every day. However, many overlook the basic checks which result in easily preventable accidents. The next time you shift into reverse, go slowly and keep your eyes on the road.