Parking lot caution: How to avoid vehicle backing accidents Published May 27, 2015 By Senior Airman Michael Battles 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- The summer is a busy travel time of year for service members and their families due to permanent change of station, vacation and overall warm weather. With the increase in travel, vehicle mishaps such as backing accidents tend to increase frequently. According to the National Safety Council, backing accidents are responsible for nearly 500 deaths and roughly 15,000 injuries per year in the United States. The NSC also reports that nearly one in four accidents can be linked to poor backing techniques. "Backing safety is very important," said Master Sgt. Shawanda Peterson, 39th ABW ground safety manager. "There have been several backing accidents here at Incirlik, thankfully none of the accidents have resulted in injury or substantial property damage." To help educate drivers about proper driving techniques to reduce accidents, the 39th ABW Safety Office offers the following tips: Get to know a vehicle's blind spots In a medium-sized truck, blind spots can extend up to 16 feet in front and 160 feet behind a vehicle. Drivers need to remember that mirrors can never give the whole picture while backing. Park defensively Choose an easy-exit parking space that doesn't crowd neighboring vehicles and park vehicles in the center of the parking space. Do a walk-around Walking around a vehicle gives a driver firsthand view of the backing area and any possible limitations. Drivers can check for children, soft or muddy areas, potholes, tire hazards, and other dangers. Know the clearances When performing a walk-around, drivers can check for obstructions, low-hanging trees and wires, and any other potential clearance-related problems. Every backing situation is new and different Sometimes a driver visits the same location several times a day and should be watchful each visit for changes and any new obstacles. Use a spotter A driver should use another person to help them when backing. The driver and spotter should use hand signals instead of verbal ones and make sure they understand each other's signals. Think in advance Drivers should not put themselves into risky backing situations that can be avoided. Drivers involved in an accident should contact their supervisor and complete an Air Force Form 978 Supervisor Mishap Form. For more information regarding driving safety, contact the 39th ABW Safety Office at 376-7233.