This measure takes into account the visible area and distance across the rear of a vehicle and whether a camera and sensors have been installed. Cars are rated on a scale of zero to five stars, with a rating of five indicating better reversing visibility.
While technologies such as reversing cameras and sensors have vastly improved safety in this area, it's important that you don't rely on these, but also check the rear-view mirror and look over your shoulder before reversing. Children should also be actively supervised when near a reversing vehicle. Refer to this Driveway Safety publication for further information to help minimise the risk of a driveway tragedy occurring at your place.
You can also use the NRMA Insurance ratings in this article to choose a car with better rear visibility, whether an SUV, people mover or commercial vehicle.
How were cars rated?
The test procedure involves:
- a laser pointing device,
- a test cylinder to represent the shoulder height of an average two-year-old child, and
- a grid that extends 1.8 x 15m from the rear of the vehicle.
The laser is directed through the rear window of each vehicle. The position where the laser is visible on the test cylinder is noted. This procedure is repeated for all positions on the grid.
The results are then analysed and an overall rating given. The best ratings are awarded to the vehicles that have the most effective rear visibility.
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