“How to Reverse”

99% of the time drivers drive forward, but sometimes we have to drive in reverse. Driving in reverse can feel backwards to new drivers. You turn the wheel one way and your car goes the other. In this blog, we will look at the steps to safely back up a vehicle. 

Step 1: Check your surroundings. Before entering your vehicle, look around your vehicle for potential hazards or things that could become hazards. Remove them if possible or wait till they pass.

Step 2: Adjust your mirrors and seat. Having proper mirror placement is crucial to being able to see all of your angles as one reverses. It is also important that you have control over the steering wheel, brake pedal, and accelerator. 

Step 3: Recheck the area. Use your mirrors and look out your windows to ensure nothing new is blocking your path. Objects can become hazards in an instant.

Step 4: Plan your reverse. Determine where you need to go and where your car will go to achieve it. Invision in your head the steps and movements you will make.

Step 5: Begin backing up. Start the engine and shift into reverse. With most automatic cars on flat terrain, releasing the brake should move you at a comfortable speed. 

Step 6: Back up. There are multiple different ways to back up. With modern technology and backup cameras determining what is behind you has become easier. However, it is still important to know how to back up without it. Look behind yourself out the back window, between the seats. Slowly release the brake and begin turning. Your car's front wheels turn so the path of turning while backing up will be different than driving forward. Be aware of your front end when backing up to avoid hitting structures or cars as you reverse. As you reverse, when you turn the wheel to the left your front end will go right, but your back end will go left. The path your vehicle takes will take some time to get used to, so it is recommended that one practice in an open area under low stress. 

Step 7: Come to a full stop. Only back up as far as you have to. When you have reached this point, come to a full stop to prevent any potential transmission damages. Then, shift into drive to move forward.

Step 8: Drive safely forward. Now that you have gotten to the 99% of your driving time, do it safely following all road laws. 

Reversing can seem daunting at first. Visibility is limited and 25% of all accidents occur while backing up. With some practice, patience, and constant scanning of your surroundings, reversing can be safe, effective, and less stressful. And if your name is Terry and someone tells you to “put it in reverse Terry” you now know what to do.