What are the precautions for reversing and shifting?
3 Answers
When reversing and shifting a vehicle, the following precautions should be taken: Obey traffic rules: According to the "Road Traffic Management Regulations," do not reverse at railway crossings, intersections, one-way streets, curves, narrow bridges, bridges, steep slopes, tunnels, or busy traffic areas, and always use a safety seat. Choose a target: When reversing, always select a target to better control the degree of steering wheel rotation and ensure the accuracy of reversing. At the same time, clearly observe the surrounding situation, and if necessary, get out of the vehicle to check, paying attention to any approaching vehicles from the front or rear. Operate accurately: Signal the intention to reverse, then shift the gear lever into reverse, adopt a suitable driving posture, and follow the same operational sequence as starting forward to reverse towards the target.
I remember when I first started learning to drive, reversing and shifting gears made my heart race. The key is to slow down and keep the speed under 10 km/h, so you can react in time. Before reversing, always turn your head and take an extra look through the rear window to avoid blind spots where people or vehicles might be—don’t rely solely on rearview mirrors, especially at night when visibility is poor. Having a partner to help keep watch is safer. When practicing, it’s best to choose an open area like an empty parking lot during the day, free from distractions. Align with reference lines and turn the steering wheel gently—no sudden movements, as sharp turns can easily lead to scraping the walls. Now that I’m used to it, I stay calm and focused, taking deep breaths to adjust my rhythm. Maintaining a steady speed and scanning the surroundings ensures safety, and I avoid distractions like phone calls or conversations.
When reversing and repositioning, I always emphasize controlling the speed—don't go too fast, leave yourself room to react. Turning your head to check behind you is essential; don't be lazy and rely solely on mirrors. In areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, honk in advance to alert those around you. Adjusting the seat position to ensure an unobstructed view is crucial because discomfort can affect your observation. Use the clutch or brake smoothly, and turn the steering wheel gently without rushing. Be cautious of pillars and corners in parking lots, as they're easily overlooked. Finally, after reversing, check if the car is properly parked and turn off the reverse lights. Keep the windows clean for clearer rearview visibility—reversing skills improve with practice.
