Backing Accidents – About 25 percent of accidents involving trucks are a result of backing over a person or into an object. It only takes a second for the crash to happen, and once it does the damage or personal injury can last a life time.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a backing accident, contact a lawyer who is familiar with backing accidents or call 1-888-762-5988 (1-888-ROCKY-88).
Standards for Safe Backing:
- The driver has the final responsibility for safe backing. If the driver is not sure whether the area behind the truck is clear, the driver shall stop the truck and get out to check the area.
- A fellow employee (if available) shall be designated as signal person to guide the driver back safely.
- The signal person shall take a position to the rear and side of the truck to see that other workers and objects stay clear of the truck.
- Always backup slowly so that the truck can stop immediately, if necessary.
- If the driver is not sure if it is clear to back or cannot account for any of the crew members, the driver shall STOP the truck immediately. (Always keep the signal person in view while backing.)
- The driver and signal person shall use the standard hand signals.
Backing is a special skill and the driver must develop this skill by practicing safe driving habits. The rear view mirror is the most important aid in backing; but, the mirror distorts heights, widths and distances. A skilled driver knows how to judge such distorted measurements accurately and adjusts properly while backing. Never back without thinking. Backing is a risky business and requires the full attention and skill of the driver. If a driver is unsure or does not know where crew members are or where objects are behind the truck, do not back. STOP! Get out of the cab and physically check the area. Crew members should be completely clear and to the side of the truck.
Contact a lawyer who is familiar with backing accidents or call 1-888-762-5988 (1-888-ROCKY-88).
