Reversing cameras an affordable option for every driver

Reversing cameras are a proven way to reduce the risk and can now be fitted to any car for less than $500.

According to the NRMA, one Australian child is run over in their own driveway by a reversing vehicle every week.  It's the second largest cause of accidental death in children under 5, behind the family pool.

What can consumers do to reduce the risk?

The first and most important step is vigilance – always check around the vehicle before reversing. Secondly, children should never be left unattended around a reversing car. If necessary, put them in the car with you.  Third, prevent access to the driveway with fencing and gates if possible, and have children treat the driveway as if it were a road.

However, you won't always be able to take these steps, especially when away from home. Kids move quickly and the highest risk group are those fast moving kids between 2 and 6. For this reason, a reversing camera should be used to ensure a clear path behind the vehicle.

Lifesaving technology – not just for new cars

Many new cars now come fitted with reversing cameras; however they are often standard only on luxury cars or expensive 4WDs. Buying a new car with a reversing camera is not an option for many people. However, fitting a reversing camera to an existing vehicle is a simple and affordable option.

Clive Rogers of The Car Kit Company, a leading national installer of reversing camera systems, said: "We're seeing a huge demand for these systems; they're now very affordable and consumers, especially parents, are becoming much more aware of the risks of reversing blind."

"We've just released a new model reversing camera that can be professionally installed for under $500. When you consider that's about the cost of the typical insurance excess, there's a good chance it will pay for itself in accident prevention, not to mention the potential life-saving aspects," he added.

More information for consumers

The NRMA's Reversing Visibility Index provides information on the rear visibility of many leading cars and 4WDs. Consumers concerned about their vehicle's reversing safety can visit www.thecarkitcompany.com.au or call 1800-CARKIT for an obligation-free quote for installation of a reversing camera

The Car Kit Company installs nationally at the customer's home or workplace. The RVM reversing camera fully installed consists of a discrete camera mounted at the rear of the car and a rear view mirror with a high resolution 3.5" LCD screen built in that replaces the existing rear view mirror. The system engages automatically when reverse gear is selected.