Backing safety incidents remain one of the most frequent and preventable types of mild to severe collisions in the transportation industry. Avoiding scenarios where you must back your vehicle is the golden standard to prevent these issues altogether. Whenever you can pull through, reposition the cab and trailer or set up for a straight-line departure, do it. Observing the basics of backing safety is easy and prevents collisions with vehicles, freight, and of course, drivers and pedestrians.
What is a Safe Backing Technique?
An attentive driver is a safe driver. Several obstacles and roadway hazards may impact a driver with a limited understanding of backing safety. Before moving your vehicle backwards, be sure to follow the five fundamentals of truck backing safety tips.
1. Circle Check: Walk completely around the vehicle before backing. Check for overhead obstacles, side clearances, ground hazards, pedestrians and moving equipment.
2. Back from the Driver’s Side: Avoid backing from the passenger (blind) side whenever possible. Set up your vehicle to maximize visibility and control.
3. Back Slowly: Slower speed provides more control. Back deliberately and be prepared to stop immediately.
4. Check Both Sides: Properly adjust and continuously use mirrors while backing. Do not rely solely on a backup camera if equipped. Cameras are aids, not replacements for visual confirmation.
5. Reliable Guide: If you can use a spotter when backing, take advantage of a reliable and trained guide. Maintain clear communication and stop immediately if you lose sight of your guide. Using a spotter for backing safety in the workplace is preferrable if you have the extra help available.
Additional Vehicle Backing Safety Techniques
Beyond the five fundamentals of truck backing safety tips, drivers can observe further steps to maintain a clean driving record. Always be aware of the tools your cab, trailer or box truck might have. For example, some vehicles are equipped with backup alarms that sound automatically. These may vary between trucks that only alert when backing close to a foreign object or those that always sound when backing.
Even if you’ve already conducted a circle check, consider making a light tap of your horn to alert others of your intentions. While not a rule, it is a helpful precaution. This also indicates your vehicle is active to any pedestrians or drivers who have entered the path of your vehicle but are out of your line of sight after completing a circle check.
Backing incidents are rarely caused by lack of skill, but by rushing to meet perceived deadlines or general complacency. Always take the extra time; a few additional seconds can prevent injuries, equipment damage and service disruptions.
Drive for ABCO
ABCO Transportation has career openings for company drivers and independent contractors. Applicants must be 21 years or older and have a current CDL Class A License. Preference will be given to individuals who also have at least one year of over-the-road (OTR) experience. Our employees enjoy competitive pay, full medical benefits, 401(k) with match, paid vacation and access to three exclusive company resorts. Apply today and start your career with ABCO Transportation!