Rearview Camera Systems Soon to Be Mandatory

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will soon require all new vehicles to come equipped with back-up camera systems, or rearview monitors, that meet certain specifications. (According to the rule, 10% of automakers' new vehicles must have the equipment by May 1, 2016; 40% by May 1, 2017; and all models by May 1, 2018.) The NHTSA estimates that such rear visibility technology will significantly reduce an estimated 210 fatalities and 15,000 injuries—roughly a third of which involved children under the age of five—that result from back-over impacts each year

Research has demonstrated that factory-installed and aftermarket camera systems, across a variety of vehicles and manufacturers, increases driver visibility into the rear blind zone. However, cameras do not necessarily show a vehicle's entire surroundings. Remind your students that, even when a vehicle is equipped with such systems, they should employ the following safety tips:

• Walk around the vehicle before getting in. Nothing beats a quick, direct visual inspection of the area surrounding your vehicle when it comes to detecting obstacles you might want to avoid.
• Use camera systems in addition to mirrors and direct observation when backing. Camera systems are a helpful supplement to mirrors and, of course, to directly observing the backing path by turning and looking over the shoulder. Don't rely on them exclusively.
• Clean the camera lens for better visibility. Rain, snow, slush, dust, and other contaminants can cloud the camera lens and blur or distort images. By regularly cleaning the lens, you ensure the best possible picture from your rearview monitor.

Back-up camera systems are likely to enhance safety, but they are not a cure-all for backing hazards. Remind students of these safety tips to keep them (and their loved ones and possessions) safe.