Tips for driving in reverse?

Question

I have been driving for a few months and my one big issue is driving in reverse. I can drive in reverse while using my mirrors and looking over my shoulder when needed, but I have a difficult time going in reverse while putting my hand on the passenger seat and looking out the back window. I feel out of control when I go in reverse that way, but that is the way I need to learn... Any tips?

Answer 1

Find a completely empty parking lot, start somewhere in the middle, and spend ten minutes or so driving just in reverse - awkward at first, but it really does help.

Answer 2

Going reverse is no different from going forward.

You turn LEFT to go LEFT

You turn RIGHT to go RIGHT.

Good Luck...

Answer 3

get in a big empty parking lot and play, you'll pick it up quicker than you think.

Answer 4

Stick with your mirrors If you ever have to drive some thing larger than a car you will have a hard time if you train your self to do it over the shoulder

Answer 5

The first rule of thumb is not to back up for long distances. Most people rarely do, usually reserving the reverse gear for leaving the driveway or maneuvering into a parking space.

But what if you're looking for an address, only to realize you passed it eight houses ago? Don't pop it into reverse and ramble back half a block. This might be the quickest response, but for reasons of both safety and traffic law, this is not a good habit to get into. Instead, take the appropriate driving steps to make a three-point turn or drive around the block.

The second key to going in reverse is to not floor the gas pedal and go blazing backward down the driveway―or anywhere for that matter. There is a reason why there is only one gear for going backward, and a low gear at that. So use caution when pulling out and ease back slowly.

If you managed to nest between two monstrous SUVs in a grocery store parking lot and you're driving a Dodge Neon, then backing out will require even more proficiency. Considering you will essentially be backing out blind, it's best to ease out in measured increments. This way, pedestrains and other traffic will have a chance to see and avoid you (since you'll be in the middle of the road before you can see them).

The third item to keep in mind when going in reverse is your form. Yes, it's true. How you position your body matters a great deal. Don't rely on your rearview or side mirrors, though of course you need to check all of them often. But also physically turn your body and look out the back window while you are going in reverse. This way you can directly assess anything that comes into your way, and those accidents of heavy consequence can be avoided.