How to reverse properly without fear of accidents
Reversing is an important skill that every driver needs to master in order to have complete control of their vehicle.
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 pedals. Press your right foot firmly on the brake so that 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 lean to the right easily.
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 behind you in the rearview mirror over your right shoulder. 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 already 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 motion of a car when driving in reverse is quite different from when driving forward. 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 to the left and vice versa. Stop the car if you are unsure of the direction of the car's reverse and try again.
2. Check the direction of the car
When you turn the steering wheel, the front of the car will be facing the opposite direction of the rear of the car. Watch the front of the car regularly 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 go slow enough to check the front of the car.
3. Switch to accelerator if necessary
If you are backing up a hill or need to change direction, you will need to use the accelerator to add momentum to the vehicle. Once your right foot is off the brake, move to the accelerator. Apply moderate pressure to reverse safely.
![]() |
The correct way to reverse a car without fear of accidents. |
While keeping your foot on the brake pedal, shift the gearshift into park, depending on your vehicle's transmission, the procedure will vary.