A backover accident occurs when a vehicle moving in reverse strikes a worker who is standing, walking, or kneeling behind it. These incidents are often serious, but they are also preventable using technology and equipment, site planning, and proper training.

How Do Backover Incidents Happen?

Backovers can occur due to various factors, including:

  • Blind spots: Drivers may be unable to see workers in their rear blind zones.
  • Unheard alarms: Backup alarms may be drowned out by loud job site noise, or they may malfunction entirely.
  • Distracted spotters: A spotter helping one vehicle may not notice another backing up nearby.
  • Falling from vehicles: Workers riding on equipment can fall and be run over.
  • Driver assumptions: Drivers may believe the path is clear without verifying it.
  • Unknown causes: In some cases, it's unclear why a worker was behind the vehicle at all.

How Can Backovers Be Prevented?

Technology and Equipment:

  • Spotters: Use trained spotters to guide drivers when reversing.
  • Backup cameras: In-vehicle monitors provide drivers with a clear rear view.
  • Proximity detection systems: Radar or sonar devices alert drivers to objects or people behind the vehicle.
  • Tag-based systems: These can notify both the driver and the worker when someone approaches the rear of a vehicle.

Site Planning:

  • Internal Traffic Control Plans (ITCPs): These site-specific plans help manage vehicle routes, reduce backing needs, and separate foot traffic from vehicle paths.

Training and Awareness:

  • Blind spot training: Workers on foot often don’t realize where vehicle blind spots are. Training should include identifying these areas and avoiding them.
  • Driver perspective training: Letting workers sit in the driver’s seat can help them understand what the driver can and can’t see.
  • Educational materials: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) offers blind spot diagrams.

By combining technology, planning, and training, employers can significantly reduce the risk of backover incidents and protect workers on construction sites.

Speak to an Experienced Workplace Injury Attorney Today

GLP Attorneys has decades of experience supporting those who have been injured at work. Our team of over 40 lawyers are located across the Pacific Northwest and are available to help ensure that you receive the justice that you deserve as you recover.

If you or a loved one has been injured while at work, call us at 800.273.5005 or email our personal injury attorneys at to schedule a free lawyer consultation.