Safety Expert Warns Utah Drivers About Hazards of Backing Vehicles

A critical discussion on the dangers of backing up while driving took center stage at the Tooele County government meeting on March 19, 2025. Officials highlighted that backing accidents are the leading cause of vehicle incidents among local government employees, surpassing other common workplace injuries.

During the meeting, a representative from the county's insurance trust revealed that nearly 99% of driving occurs in a forward motion, yet the majority of accidents happen when vehicles are in reverse. "Our number one at-fault accident is backing your car up," the representative stated, emphasizing the need for improved awareness and training.

The discussion underscored several factors contributing to these accidents, including visibility issues, distractions, and complacency. Many drivers rely heavily on backup cameras, which can lead to a false sense of security. "Not all vehicles have them, and many drivers forget to check their surroundings," the representative noted.

To combat this trend, officials proposed a series of safety measures. These include ensuring vehicles are clear of snow and ice, adjusting mirrors before driving, and actively turning to check blind spots rather than solely relying on technology. The importance of eliminating distractions, such as mobile phones and conversations, was also stressed. "Backing up is the highest risk maneuver you will do when you drive," the representative warned, urging drivers to treat it with the seriousness it deserves.

The meeting concluded with a call for enhanced defensive driver training programs to address these issues, aiming to reduce the number of backing accidents and promote safer driving practices across Tooele County.