Ask about our brand-new Freightliners! Our entire fleet updated.

For details call 888-973-5397.

Backing Accidents are Preventable

Posted in Blog  
Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Backing up tends to be one of the most difficult things for new drivers to get a handle on, and occasionally a sore spot even for experienced drivers when they’re in challenging areas. Here are some tips that we have compiled and advice from experienced drivers on how to avoid accidents while backing.

  1. Set up correctly to back up. If you’re not in a good orientation already, verify that is the best angle/direction to back in from and reposition if needed.
  2. Avoid backing into traffic stream. Obviously this is going to make backing much more difficult.
  3. Visually check the area for obstacles and your path before backing up. You may see something during your check that you wouldn’t notice from the truck.
  4. Properly use mirrors and physically look back as needed. Using both a physical look and your mirrors will give you a better perspective.
  5. Get out and look (GOAL) periodically to check position in relation to other vehicles, obstacles.
  6. Don’t rely SOLELY on a guide to help while backing up.
  7. Don’t back up using the blind side when you can make a sight side approach.
  8. Always look behind before backing up. Don’t move an inch without looking first.

As always, thank you to our drivers for taking extra care and creating a safe driving culture at NTB!