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Cameras rolling in WA driveways

07/10/2009
SGIO has today praised the increasing number of manufacturers who've adopted reversing camera technology, in a bid to reduce the number of children injured in reversing incidents.

Of the 205 cars tested, five per cent scored the full five stars up from zero per cent in 2004. The improvement in the results has largely coincided with an increase in the number of reversing cameras now coming as either standard or optional features on new cars. This year the total reached 22 – up from only one in 2004.

For the first time, cameras are available on popular Australian built large cars, with both the Ford Falcon and Toyota Camry/Aurion making them either an optional or standard feature on selected vehicles.

And WA drivers appear to be embracing the trend with a survey of 500 respondents revealing more than three quarters* (78 per cent) of drivers believe reversing cameras are a worthwhile safety feature. SGIO spokesperson Adam Macbeth said the results were largely positive.

“Both Ford and Toyota are to be congratulated for introducing reversing cameras to the large vehicle category – meaning more Australian families will have access to this potentially life saving technology,” explained Mr Macbeth. “We’d like to encourage other manufacturers to follow their lead.

“Less than ten years ago, not one manufacturer had reversing cameras. Now around half of manufacturers have them on at least one of their models. And it’s great to see manufacturers of more affordable cars such as Kia also embracing this technology.”

Mr Macbeth said parents not looking to upgrade the family car could also consider purchasing a reversing camera and having it retro-fitted.

Kidsafe WA Program Manger Melita Leeds reminded all parents and care-givers that even the best reversing camera was no substitute for adult supervision of children around cars.

“Tragically, every week a child is run over in their driveway in Australia and these incidents account for about 10 per cent of all child pedestrian deaths and injuries**,” said Ms Leeds.

“Small children are naturally inquisitive and can move surprisingly quickly. Motorists need to slow down and be very aware of what’s going on around them, driving no faster than 5 km/h when in reverse.

“But first and foremost – please remember to hold hands or carry your child and move them safely out of harms way, before even moving the vehicle.”

SGIO Reversing Visibility Index

This Index has been developed to encourage motorists to compare the safety design features of vehicles. This consumer tool takes into account the visible area and distance across the rear of the vehicle and whether cameras and sensors have been installed. Results are rated on a scale of zero to five stars, with a rating of five indicating better reversing visibility than all other vehicles.

5 star vehicles

 

0 Star Vehicles

 

View full results of SGIO’s Reversing Visibility Index.

* Based on a Pure Profile survey, September 2009.
** www.maa.nsw.gov.au

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