Backup accidents are a very common type of truck accident all over the world right now.
As trucks or tractor-trailer combinations grow in length, it becomes increasingly challenging for drivers to maintain clear visibility.
This limited visibility behind the truck or trailer makes safe stopping, lane merging, turning, and backing up into traffic more difficult.
As of May 1, 2018, all new vehicles manufactured on or after that date with a gross weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less will be required to have a clear field of view for the ten-by-twenty-foot zone immediately behind the vehicle.
Many older vehicles lack backup cameras due to technological advancements. But fear not! Even if your vehicle predates the 2018 federal backup camera mandates, you can still access this technology.
There’re a diverse range of aftermarket backup camera systems available. These systems enable you to retrofit reverse-activated sensors and monitors into any vehicle, regardless of its age!
Navigating a truck or a tractor-trailer in reverse, whether from a loading dock, parking lot, or any other location, presents significant challenges for truck drivers.
The sheer length of the vehicle, coupled with the trailer’s independent movement from the cab, greatly diminishes rear visibility, making this maneuver particularly demanding.
To reduce risks, numerous trucking companies now employ specialized programs, simulations and different types of truck camera system to aid drivers in mastering the skill of backing up before they encounter live traffic scenarios.
The importance of proper technique cannot be overstated, as accidents resulting from inadequate visibility or incorrect maneuvering can have fatal consequences for both pedestrians and operators.
Statistical Evidence of Backup Cameras
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers compelling data showcasing the significance of backup cameras.
Between 2008 and 2011, the adoption of backup cameras in vehicles rose dramatically from 32% to 68%.
Over this timeframe, injuries resulting from backup accidents decreased by 8%, while fatalities from such incidents witnessed a remarkable reduction of 31%.
These statistics underscore the undeniable role of backup cameras in enhancing safety and avoiding tragic accidents.
Backup Cameras Types
Now truck backup cameras come in various styles to cater to different needs. Manufacturers offer alternative camera mounting locations, monitor types, and installation procedures, ensuring that there’s a suitable option for every situation.
To begin, let’s discuss camera installation locations and types. Depending on your preferred viewing angle and use, backup cameras come configured for several mounting locations, including:
Tailgate handle – It is a type of rearview camera installed in or around the tailgate handle of a vehicle.
Image: Ford OEM tailgate camera
This type of camera provides a view of the area behind the vehicle, aiding the driver in reversing maneuvers and parking.
It is especially useful in larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs where visibility may be limited.
The camera feed is typically displayed on the vehicle’s dashboard screen or rearview mirror, allowing you to see obstacles or pedestrians behind the vehicle while backing up.
License plate – Adding a camera to your license plate has numerous benefits. License plate type cameras are extremely simple to set up, especially when the camera is included in the design of the license plate frame.
Utilizing the top two holes of your vehicle’s license plate to secure the camera’s mounting bracket.
Depending on the camera setup, you can enjoy a panoramic perspective. The widest angle of view that you can get from a good license plate car camera is around 170 degrees.
The standard average begins with a 120-degree field of view. In this way, you can see the area behind your vehicle from edge to edge and avoid colliding with anything.
Rear bumpers – Installed to the center of truck rear bumpers, usually it will come with a camera bracket mount which is the most versatile option since you can position it anywhere on the back of your truck.
On the other hand, installing a bracket can mean drilling into your vehicle. If you end up changing your mind about your backup camera, you’ll have two holes in the body.
Third brake light – Also consider the third brake light cameras to keep an eye on your load while monitoring the area behind your truck.
You can install it either by replacing the original 3rd brake light or by mounting it in various locations around the vehicle to cover blind spots.
It’s particularly suitable for vehicles with removed stock tailgates, such as those used for fifth wheel or slide-in camper setups. Most importantly, it’s incredibly simple to install.
Spare tire – Spare tire backup camera is the perfect solution for quick installation with special adjustable bracket.
When installing, you can decide if you want the system on continuously while your driving or to pop on only when you go in reverse.
Rear/Side with AI detection – Newest innovation for large trucks and commercial trucks, the AI camera system utilises the latest AI and machine learning technology to help you be more aware of pedestrians.
Utilizing advanced AI technology and machine learning, such AI camera offers real-time detection and sound notifications, aiding you in preventing collisions with pedestrians.
Monitor Types and Mounting Locations
Now, let’s discuss monitor types and its mounting positions.
While it’s common to integrate a reverse camera into a video-compatible aftermarket double-din radio, not all vehicles come equipped with one.
Investing in an aftermarket radio entails added expenses. Furthermore, certain customers may prefer the straightforwardness of an analog factory radio!
This method is often preferred as it most accurately mimics the functionality of an OE backup camera; however, it does require an aftermarket stereo.
Rearview mirror – As its name implies, merges the features of a traditional rearview mirror with cameras images feed.
It is one of the most popular backup monitor design. It features a monitor designed to resemble a rearview mirror, complete with a mirror-like surface.
The monitor can be affixed to or integrated in lieu of the original rearview mirror. When inactive, it functions just like a traditional mirror. However, upon shifting your vehicle into reverse gear, the monitor activates, displaying a live feed from the rear-mounted camera.
These rearview mirror monitors have gained popularity for their ability to preserve the factory stereo of your vehicle and minimize excessive alterations.
Stand-alone monitor – When retrofitting a backup camera into an older vehicle, you’ll need a display to show the image.
While it’s common practice to install a video-capable stereo head unit or a backup camera rearview mirror, some aftermarket systems feature an auxiliary monitor that allows you to retain the factory stereo!
These comprehensive camera kits would include everything necessary for installation, including a high-end, IP67-69 rated infrared camera, a 65-foot harness, and your choice of a 5, 7, 9 or even 10-inch monitor!
Image: Kocchi’s 764D102M1 truck backup camera kits
Additional features include integrated sunshades for superior visibility in direct sunlight and expandability for multiple cameras to cover more blind spots.
Window pillar – Installing a high-definition monitor in the vehicle’s window pillar to replace the original mirrors could enhance safety by providing a wider field of vision compared to mirrors of classes II, IV, and V.
The pillar-mounted monitor can improve visibility and enable drivers to navigate comfortably and maneuver with ease in various traffic scenarios, ultimately enhancing safety for both the driver and other road users.
Window pillar monitor usually consists of two high-definition (HD) cameras mounted on the side of a vehicle.
These cameras replace the exterior mirrors and cover the statutory mirror classes II and IV.
The driver then is able to view the camera images in real time on a split-screen HD monitor in the window pillar of the vehicle.
When the vehicle is in reverse mode, it triggers the backup camera and the parking lines show up on the screen too.
Wired or Wireless System?
Finally, there’s the comparison between wired and wireless camera systems.
Conventionally, setting up backup cameras with wires involves a lengthy installation process that includes routing wires through the chassis and disassembling interior plastics.
Despite being time-consuming, wired systems have established a reputation for reliability.
Alternatively, you can also go with fully wireless camera systems featuring simple installations and accepting multiple wireless camera inputs easily without the need for wiring.
Conclusion
Backup cameras offer a wide range of benefits. Many truck owners are surprised to learn that you can retrofit a backup camera if your pickup is missing one from the factory.
Not only do they provide an extra layer of safety for your truck or also large commercial truck, but they also allow you to monitor and record what is happening around you while you are driving.
With features such as parking mode, radar detection, and the ability to capture high-quality footage, backup camera system is a great addition to any car.
The cost of purchase and installation is also relatively low compared to other car accessories, so it’s worth considering if you want added protection.
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