The most common nontraffic accidents that involve children include frontovers, backovers, and vehicle heat stroke deaths. Together, they account for 80% of all nontraffic accidents for children under 15, and sadly, these numbers are increasing.
In 2010, there were 70 frontover fatalities and 66 backover fatalities and thousands of injuries because small children cannot be seen around vehicles. At least 70% of those children were struck by a driver related to them, often a parent. Frontovers and backovers combined equate to 64% of the non-traffic vehicular deaths for children ages 15 and younger, most of them on the younger side. Toddlers 12 to 23 months old represent 70% of the victims.
Tips for Avoiding Nontraffic Accidents
Most drivers assume they have full visibility when moving forward, but because many vehicles are high off the ground, you simply cannot see a small child who is directly in front of you. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce blind zones and avert these accidents.
TIPS
- Be especially careful operating your vehicle when leaving and returning home. Children will impulsively follow you when leaving or run out to greet you when you come home. In their haste, they will undoubtedly get in your way, without your knowledge.
- Purchase a vehicle or retrofit your vehicle with backup warning devices and cameras to reduce or eliminate the blind zones. The Federal Government is in the process of developing and implementing a rear visibility standard for all motor vehicles. It is probable that future vehicles will have mandatory warnings and cameras when moving forward from a stop and backing up.
Be sure to check out additional safety tips for nontraffic accident safety from Safe Kids USA.
