Auto accidents are commonplace on roadways no matter where you go. But what many people don’t realize is that some of the most tragic incidents occur very close to home. Many accidents occur in neighborhoods and driveways. More often than not, these accidents are backovers or frontovers. Toddlers and young children are usually the victims in these situations that may cause serious injuries or death.
A backover occurs when a driver backs out of a driveway or parking space and fails to see the child behind their vehicle. Here in the United States, about 50 children are backed over by vehicles each week. A frontover is the opposite of a backover and involves a child being struck by a driver that is moving forward and does not see the child in front of their car. Cars have a blind zone that extends up to 8 feet in front and up to 50 feet in the rear.
In order to avoid this happening, there are a few things you can do:
Before moving your vehicle, make a complete circle around it. Look for children or any objects beside or beneath the car that might attract their attention. Move the items a safe distance away from the car before you get in and start the engine. Stay alert and be aware of where the children are before moving the vehicle. You can also install backup warning devices such as a rearview camera or cross view mirrors in your vehicle in order to better view your blind spots. Whenever entering or exiting the car, always accompany children and hold their hand.
The best thing you can do to avoid such accidents is to educate children on the dangers of automobiles parked or in motion. Children should understand that parked vehicles can potentially move and a driver might not be able to see them. Playing or hanging around vehicles should be prohibited at all times.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
