How to judge the distance behind when reversing?

[SanTessa]

With a reversing camera, if the car behind is a sedan, when the red line on the central control screen aligns with its front bumper, the distance between the two vehicles is approximately 35 centimeters. If the vehicle behind is a commercial van or SUV, when the red line aligns with the lower edge of its front license plate, the measured distance between the two vehicles is about 30 centimeters. To use the parking sensors to judge the distance, when they emit a rapid alarm, the distance to the vehicle behind is generally within half a meter.

[McRylee]

I usually like to use technological devices to assist with reversing, especially the reversing camera system. The screen displays the rear distance and viewing angle in real time, working in conjunction with the radar alarm sound to alert me. For example, when the distance number drops to 1 meter, it indicates that I'm very close, and it's time to stop. The reversing radar is also very practical—the faster the beeping sound, the closer the obstacle is. However, if the environment is noisy or the system malfunctions, I have to rely on sensory judgment. I also recommend regularly calibrating these devices to ensure accuracy. Once you develop this habit, reversing becomes much easier and safer, especially in mall parking lots or narrow streets, effectively avoiding scratches and collisions.

[Freddy]

For the past twenty years of reversing, I've primarily relied on my eyes and rearview mirrors to estimate distances. The visibility through the rear window is crucial—for instance, observing how the size of objects behind changes. When a small box in the mirror grows to occupy half the mirror, it typically means there's only about half a meter left, and it's time to stop immediately. With enough practice, you can also use auditory cues like changes in engine pitch or environmental echoes. Experience has taught me that speed must be kept slow, especially at night or in rainy conditions, requiring heightened concentration to avoid misjudgment. During daily driving, I often remind myself to check all around for safe spots, which naturally hones an accurate sense of distance.

[DiPiper]

I usually look for fixed physical references to judge distances when parking, such as observing the parking lines on the ground or pillars on the wall, and stop when the rear bumper aligns with these markers. Additionally, objects at the rear of the car, such as the license plate or tire position, can also serve as references. Adjusting the angle with the rearview mirror helps avoid blind spots. The key is to maintain a slow reversing speed, stay focused, and develop the habit of observing the surroundings before each operation to prevent accidental collisions.