Yes, backup cameras are improving vehicle safety by giving drivers a clearer view of the area behind a vehicle and helping reduce the risk of collisions with people, vehicles, and objects.
Backup cameras alert you when there’s a bicycle on the ground left by one of your kids that you might not have seen. They alert you in a parking lot when a pedestrian walks behind your vehicle, and they beep when your vehicle is backing up too close to an object on the ground.
However, at Jones & Swanson, we know that even with modern safety technology, accidents can still happen when drivers fail to look carefully, become distracted, or rely too heavily on a camera. With over 50 years of combined experience, you can trust our Marietta car accident lawyers.
How Do Backup Cameras Improve Vehicle Safety?
Backup cameras provide drivers with a view of the area directly behind the vehicle that may be difficult to see through the rear window or mirrors.
Reducing Blind Spots
A backup camera can help drivers identify people, bicycles, vehicles, and objects that may otherwise be hidden behind the vehicle. This added visibility can be especially helpful when backing out of a driveway, parking space, or crowded parking lot.
Helping Drivers Park More Safely
Backup cameras can also make parking easier by showing the vehicle’s surroundings on a dashboard display. Some vehicles include additional features, such as parking guidelines or sensors, that provide further assistance.
However, drivers should not rely on these systems alone. Looking around the vehicle and checking mirrors before and while backing up remain important safety practices.
Are Backup Cameras Required?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) considered adopting regulations for better rearward visibility for years. In 2007, Congress took a step forward when it passed the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act, but it took some time before the rules were written into law.
The rule was finalized in 2014, and by May 2018, all new vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds were required to have a backup camera. The NHTSA says that mandatory backup cameras help prevent injuries and deaths, especially in young children who can walk behind vehicles unseen.
While backup cameras alone haven’t eliminated backover accidents, they remain a valuable safety tool that helps prevent injuries and deaths.
What Should You Do After a Backing-Up Accident?
If you are involved in a collision involving a vehicle backing up, take steps to protect your health and potential claim. If possible, move to a safe location, contact law enforcement when appropriate, and seek medical attention for injuries.
You should also document the accident scene by taking photographs of the vehicles, surrounding area, visible damage, and any relevant signs or conditions. Obtain contact and insurance information from the other driver and gather contact information from witnesses.
Jones & Swanson will review available evidence, including photographs, accident reports, witness statements, vehicle damage, and applicable insurance information, to help determine how the collision occurred.
Why Should You Hire Our Car Accident Lawyers in Georgia?
Our car accident lawyers will help you understand your legal rights and pursue damages when another driver’s negligence caused your injuries.
- Investigating the accident: Jones & Swanson will review available evidence to help determine how the crash occurred and who may be responsible.
- Documenting your injuries: Your medical records and other documentation can help establish the nature and extent of your accident-related injuries.
- Handling insurance communications: Our attorneys will communicate with insurance companies and help protect your interests during the claims process.
- Calculating damages: Our lawyers will consider medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and other losses that may be available under applicable law.
- Pursuing your claim: Jones & Swanson will work to build your case and seek the compensation you deserve through payment negotiations or litigation when appropriate.
How Jones & Swanson Will Help After a Car Accident
Determining who is responsible for a crash may require a careful review of the circumstances surrounding the collision. Backup camera footage, vehicle technology, photographs, witness accounts, and other evidence may help establish what happened.
Jones & Swanson understands that a car accident can result in medical expenses, missed work, property damage, and other losses. Our team will evaluate your situation and explain potential legal options based on the facts of your case.
Contact Jones & Swanson After a Car Accident
Are backup cameras improving safety? The short answer is yes, but accidents can and do happen, which is why it’s important to partner with our car accident lawyers if you’re injured.
Even though backup cameras are required in newer vehicles, drivers still need to remain attentive and take reasonable precautions when operating a vehicle. When another driver’s negligence causes you harm, Jones & Swanson will help you pursue damages for your losses.
Contact Jones & Swanson to discuss your accident and learn more about your options. You can also visit our FAQ page to learn more about car accident claims and frequently asked legal questions.
