Install a Backup Camera in Business Vehicles

Backup Camera

Why Backup Cameras Are Needed in Business Vehicles

Backup cameras can provide an additional safety measure for your business vehicles. They are especially useful for larger vehicles such as vans or trucks where visibility in the rear may be limited. Backup cameras allow drivers to see objects that are not visible through the rear window.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 15,000 injuries and 200 deaths occur each year as a result of backup crashes. Children under the age of five accounted for 31 percent of those.

Below are some additional reasons you need backup cameras for all of your business vehicles.

Backup Cameras Help Save Lives

Backup cameras can prevent injury or even fatalities in the workplace. While vehicles with an obstructed rear view such as forklifts are required to have an audible alarm when backing, studies have suggested that people can become accustomed to the sound. Those who hear it daily in their work environment may tend to dismiss it. Moreover, the audible sound does not prevent the driver from backing into a large object that could fall and injure them or others nearby.

They Prevent Damage to Property

Accident claims reported to your insurance company can cause your rates to increase. If your vehicles are damaged or cause damage to the property of others, it can lead to additional operating costs for your business. Your insurance costs may be lowered when backup cameras are installed on your commercial vehicle. The initial cost of installing a backup camera may be immediately offset by a discounted insurance premium. Check with your commercial auto company to see if they offer a backup camera discount.

Backup cameras can assist drivers when trying to maneuver the vehicle in tight spaces such as:

  • Parking in an alley between two buildings
  • Backing up to a loading dock
  • Parallel parking
  • Maneuvering between aisles

Installation Is Simple

A backup camera can be purchased at numerous retail outlets and comes with simple-to-follow instructions for the do-it-yourselfer. Many are easily installed with only a screwdriver though some may require drilling to mount the camera on the back bumper.

You can find a variety of videos on the internet that show how to install backup cameras. Some auto parts retailers will install them as well.

Costs Are Reasonable

If your vehicles do not have backup cameras, they can be installed for little expense. After-market backup cameras can now be purchased for as little as $150. There are a variety of types with different screen sizes available.

Installation usually takes about two hours and costs $75 per hour. The average cost to install a video monitor and a backup camera ranges from $500 to $1,900.

The cost of a backup camera is often much less than even one accident. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration passed regulations stating that all passenger vehicles sold or leased must include rearview monitoring systems by 2018.

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