14 December 2004

Prevention is better than cure for driveway accidents

One child, often a toddler, is run over in the driveway of their home every week in Australia.

With the warmer weather settling in and the school holidays about to begin, children are spending more time playing outdoors – in the yard and around driveways and streets.

According to Rebecca Mitchell, Manager of Injury Prevention for NSW Health, small children can be impossible to see from inside a car, especially if they are immediately behind it.

“The rear vision of a number of popular cars has been tested with results showing that there is not a ‘blind spot’ but in fact a large ‘blind space’ behind most cars.

“Even if your car has parking sensors or a video camera fitted, you may not notice a small child until it is too late to stop,” she said.

Ms Mitchell said many driveway accidents could be prevented and suggests drivers and parents keep the following potentially life-saving tips in mind:

• Always supervise your child whenever a vehicle is to be moved – hold their hands or hold them close to keep them safe.

• If you’re the only adult at home and need to move a vehicle, even only a small distance, place children securely in the vehicle with you while you move it.

• A driveway is actually a small road – discourage children from using it as a play area.

• Make access to the driveway from the house difficult for a child, possibly using security doors, fencing or gates.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au