I am an insurance broker and this is why you should always back up in public parking spots.
- Insurance expert revealed a useful tip
- Reverse parking reduces liability in fender-bender accidents
An insurance broker has revealed that drivers should always reverse park if they can because they are less likely to be at fault if there is an accident with another car.
Dan Ufer, from Queensland, said in a recent video to TikTok that it is “best practice” to back out of a parking lot, as those who back up are held responsible for the accident, regardless of the circumstances.
“If you’re backing off, you’re always 100 percent at fault,” Mr. Ufer explained.
There are few things as annoying as a bump on a parking lot fender, but an insurance broker has revealed how drivers can avoid being found at fault.
“So in a mall parking situation, if one vehicle is reversing and another is driving and they collide in between, the reversing driver is always at fault.”
He added that in situations where both cars back up, it will typically be “each’s own claim,” meaning each driver pays for their respective damages because both are held liable.
“So to reduce the risk of being at fault, you should always reverse park.”
Viewers thanked Mr. Ufer for the tip saying it was a simple tip but generally not widely known.
“This is great, now I just have to master the reverse park,” said one spectator.
“Yes, there is much better visibility driving forward from a gap than going backwards,” added another.
Other onlookers said they had already reversed parked for other reasons.
“If you have car trouble, you can access the engine and another car can connect jumper cables,” said one.
“My dad taught me to do this in case you need to go somewhere quickly,” said another.
Major Australian insurer Vero backs Ufer’s suggestion, saying the rules of the road are clear.
“In all states, the rules of the road state that a driver must not drive a vehicle in reverse unless it is safe to do so.”
“The law also states that drivers must not back a vehicle beyond what is reasonably necessary.”
“In an insurance liability environment, the driver who is driving in reverse is automatically considered at fault, regardless of other circumstances, such as illegally parked cars and the other driver moving at high speed.”
Dan Ufer said insurance companies will almost always find the reversing driver at fault, regardless of other circumstances.
The insurer recommends a few points to check before backing up.
“Make sure windows are clean and mirrors are properly positioned…and check the surrounding area for hazards, including those that move, such as children or animals.”
“Consider buying a car with reversing sensors or cameras, although these should not replace physical verification of the driver.”
“Smaller cars are also generally easier to maneuver in tight or crowded places.”
