If you are shopping for a new car, you should not let the salesperson tell you a backup camera is an upgrade or feature. After all, since 2018, federal regulations have required all new vehicles sold in the country to come with standard backup cameras.
This is because these cameras tend to increase driver and pedestrian safety. While a backup camera is one tool motorists can use to protect pedestrians, it does not eliminate the danger to walkers, runners and other pedestrians.
A potential for overreliance
Backup cameras give drivers real-time footage of the space behind their vehicles. If a pedestrian appears on the screen, a motorist can stop. Still, overreliance on backup cameras can be problematic if drivers do not look over their shoulders or otherwise inspect what is behind them.
A possible time delay
Some backup cameras are better than others. If a camera has even a short delay, a pedestrian may move into the danger zone without the driver noticing. Because backup cameras are electronic devices, they may act up intermittently and without notice.
A restricted view
Even if a car’s backup camera has a wide-angle lens, it may still offer a restricted view. For example, the camera may not capture pedestrians who are behind bushes or other objects. Furthermore, a backup camera’s lens may collect mud, snow or dust, any of which may distort the footage.
Safety-conscious motorists understand the importance of using backup cameras in conjunction with rearview mirrors, side mirrors and over-the-shoulder glances. Ultimately, if a driver’s misuse of a backup camera causes you to suffer a serious injury, you may have a valid personal injury claim.