How to reverse properly without fear of accidents

I. Reverse in a straight line

1. Perform a 360-degree check around the vehicle

Turn your head from side to side to get a complete view of your vehicle's surroundings. Make sure nothing is around or approaching your vehicle while you are backing up.

Note: Use your rearview mirrors to help with your vision. However, it is still important to look around for obstacles.

2. Place your right foot on the brake pedal

When driving forward or in reverse, use only your right foot to operate the accelerator and brake. Press your right foot firmly on the brake so the vehicle does not move until you are ready to reverse.

3. Keep your left hand in the correct position

Place your left hand on the 12 o'clock position of the steering wheel to easily lean to the right.

4. Put the car in reverse

Depending on the transmission system on your vehicle, you will need to perform movements to put the vehicle into reverse.

5. Look back over your right shoulder

If your vision is not obstructed, turn your body to look over your right shoulder in the rearview mirror. Note: Always keep your right foot on the brake pedal. If you are driving a truck or SUV, use the rearview mirror to see behind you.

Note: You can place your hand on the passenger seat for a more comfortable reversing position.

6. Slowly take your foot off the brake

When you release the brake pedal, the car will gradually move backwards. In many cases, you will not need to press the accelerator pedal to move the car backwards because the car has enough kinetic energy.

Note: Take your right foot off the brake slowly to make sure you don't reverse too quickly.

II. Change direction when you reverse

1. How to turn the steering wheel when reversing

Always turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the rear of the car to point. The movement of a car in reverse is quite different from that in forward motion. When backing up, make slight adjustments to the steering wheel in the direction you want the rear of the car to point.

The correct way to reverse a car without fear of accidents.

Note: Turning the steering wheel to the left causes the rear of the car to point left and vice versa. Stop the car if you are unsure of the direction of the reverse and try again.

2. Check the direction of the car

When you turn the steering wheel, the front of the car will point to the opposite side of the rear of the car. Watch the front of the car often to avoid hitting obstacles in front.

Note: When you turn the steering wheel to the left, the front of the car will turn to the right and vice versa. Always slow down enough to check the front of the car.

3. Switch to the accelerator if necessary

If you are backing up a hill or need to change direction, you will need to use the accelerator to give the car more momentum. Once your right foot is off the brake, move to the accelerator. Apply moderate pressure to back up safely.

The correct way to reverse a car without fear of accidents.

While keeping your foot on the brake pedal, shift the gear lever into park, depending on your vehicle's transmission type this will vary.