A back-over accident occurs when a vehicle, going in reverse, backs over a pedestrian. These accidents are relatively common but almost always avoidable. When they occur, they result in significant injuries or even death to the victim. If you have been injured in a back-over accident, you may be able to hold the driver legally responsible. You need an experienced Smyrna car accident attorney who will demand the compensation you deserve.
Back-over accidents are most common in parking lots and on residential driveways. Drivers are responsible for taking reasonable precautions when they back out of a parking space or driveway. Although they cannot prevent every accident from occurring, most back-over accidents are due to distraction or inattention. Pausing to check rearview and side-view mirrors, and slowly accelerating the vehicle, would avoid many crashes.
Children are especially at risk of being hurt because they don’t always understand the dangers of vehicles backing up. If someone crosses behind or is present in the vehicle’s blind spot, they may get hit. An accident victim could suffer these and other injuries:
- Broken arms, legs, and other bones
- Spinal cord, neck, and back injuries
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Lacerations
- Bruises
Even at relatively low speeds, like in a parking lot, the results of a back-over accident can be disastrous. In some cases, the injuries occur because a child unexpectedly darts out behind a car. Parents should make sure they teach their kids how to safely walk in the presence of vehicles. Children should learn to never assume that a parked car won’t back out. Teach your kids to use a sidewalk where possible, and to be aware of their surroundings at all times.
These are some quick, easy steps that all drivers can take to lessen the likelihood of backing over a pedestrian:
- Use a back-up camera, if your vehicle comes with one equipped. But never rely solely on a back-up camera as it may not capture everything around the vehicle.
- Check your mirrors. Use both your rearview and both side-view mirrors to ensure no one is behind or approaching your vehicle.
- Visually check outside your car from the driver’s seat. Look out all windows and give yourself as much of a 360 degree view as possible.
- If necessary, get out of the car and check. This may be helpful in particularly crowded areas (such as busy parking lots) or in poor weather conditions.
- Accelerate slowly and with deliberation. Use your brakes as needed until you’re done backing up.
In almost all cases, the vehicle that was backing up will be responsible for the accident. That’s because checking your mirrors and surroundings before backing up is a fairly basic responsibility of all drivers. But that doesn’t mean you will be automatically compensated for your injuries. You will need to prove your case, which means proving the driver was negligent in his or her actions.
If you’ve been hurt, the responsible driver may need to pay you significant damages. These can include:
- Medical bills, including for any hospital stays while you recover
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Prescription drug costs
- Time you’ve lost from work while recovering from your injuries
- Decreased earning capacity resulting from your injuries
If a loved one is killed in a back-over accident, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This type of lawsuit could cover funeral expenses, among other damages.
Contact a Smyrna Back Over Accident Attorney Today
At Schneider Hammers, we fight for the rights of automobile accident victims. When someone’s negligence results in your injuries, you deserve compensation. Let us review your case and let you know about your legal options. Call our office and schedule your consultation with a Smyrna personal injury attorney today.
