How Safe Are Vehicle Back-Up Cameras?

Colburn Law

Posted in Car Accidents on February 28, 2023

Backing up a vehicle can be a challenging task, especially in busy areas where there are pedestrians or other vehicles around. Many drivers rely on their rearview mirrors to help them see what’s behind them, but these mirrors have their limitations. 

To address this issue, many vehicles now come equipped with backup cameras that provide a wider view of the area behind the car. While backup cameras can be useful in improving visibility and reducing the risk of accidents, there are still questions about their safety and effectiveness. 

Can Back-Up Cameras Prevent Accidents?

There is a major blind spot at the rear of a vehicle, meaning that a driver cannot see people or objects directly behind the car. Every year, many people are injured or even killed in accidents caused by a driver backing up and running over them. Many of these victims are children or elderly people. 

To prevent these accidents, the government has required all new vehicles sold in the U.S. to be equipped with backup cameras. When used correctly, backup cameras have the potential to significantly reduce car accidents, but drivers must remain vigilant while using them.

The Dangers of Back-Up Cameras

While backup cameras provide drivers with a wider field of view, they are not a substitute for visual inspections and situational awareness. There are four potential dangers of backup cameras:

• First, drivers can become overconfident and rely solely on the camera, leading to a false sense of security. 
• Second, the cameras may not function correctly, resulting in an accident that could have been avoided. 
• Third, a distracted driver may not use the camera at all, rendering it ineffective. 
• Fourth, backup cameras do not protect against front-over accidents, which can occur if a child or pet is in front of the vehicle and out of view of the camera.

What to Do If You Are Injured in a Washington Car Accident

Drivers who rely solely on their vehicle backup cameras can endanger everyone on the road, including other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. If you were injured in a collision, you may be entitled to financial compensation through an insurance claim or lawsuit.

To protect yourself and your future claim, take the following steps after the crash:

• Seek Medical Attention: Get medical help right away, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and delaying medical treatment can worsen your condition.
• Call the Police: Call 911 and report the accident to the police. The police will create a report that you can use later when filing an insurance claim or lawsuit.
• Collect Information: Collect the contact and insurance information of the driver and any witnesses who saw the collision happen. Take pictures of the accident scene and the damages to the vehicles involved.
• Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Car accident claims can be complex, and it’s important to have a lawyer on your side. After receiving medical care, contact an attorney who can represent your case.
• Keep Records: During your case, keep track of all medical bills, receipts, and other expenses related to your injuries. You may also want to keep a journal where you detail how the accident has impacted your life.

A Washington car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and recover fair compensation for your injuries. As soon as possible following your collision, contact an attorney to discuss your case and plan your next steps.