Nearly 60% of commercial vehicle accident claims involve reversing, with HGVs accounting for 19%, vans 15%, and company cars 10%. Despite the low speed involved, reversing remains a significant hazard. Shockingly, almost a quarter of all workplace vehicle-related deaths occur during reversing.

Even experienced drivers need extra care when reversing in tricky situations. With attention to detail and a few simple precautions, we can help reduce these accidents.

Before Reversing

• Walk around the vehicle to identify hazards and ensure the path is clear
• Check for pedestrians and workers, ensuring they are out of the way
• Check height and ground clearance for obstructions
• Alert others by using hazard lights or sounding your horn
• Minimise reversing distance – if you can avoid reversing a long way, do so
• Be cautious of children and others who may be unaware of your actions

When Reversing

• Use a trained signaller (banksman) to guide you. Ensure you understand their signals and stop if you lose sight of them
• Reverse into spaces rather than out into traffic
• Follow floor guidelines to position your vehicle
• Reverse slowly, stopping if your view is obstructed or you’re unsure of distances

Common Reversing Accident Locations

• Collection and delivery points (52%)
• On site (29%)
• On route (15%)
• At the depot (4%)

Site Safety Measures

Some organisations have safety provisions to assist with reversing:

• One-way systems to reduce the need for reversing
• Fixed mirrors and barriers to increase visibility and stop vehicle movement
• Wheel stops and buffers to prevent vehicles from reversing into structures

Vehicle Safety Devices

• External mirrors and CCTV systems to improve rear visibility
• Reversing alarms (audible or flashing) to alert others
• Sensing systems to warn the driver or stop the vehicle if an obstruction is detected

This information is intended as a helpful guide only. Always stay alert and follow best practices to ensure safe reversing at all times.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.