What is a recommended practice before backing up?

Using a guide whenever possible is a recommended practice before backing up because it significantly enhances safety and visibility. When backing up a vehicle, especially one towing a heavy trailer, the driver has limited sightlines, which can create blind spots. A guide—whether it be another person or a spotter—can help ensure that the vehicle is maneuvered safely and accurately, reducing the risk of collisions with obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles.

This practice supports effective communication between the driver and the guide, allowing for clear directions and helping to navigate complex situations. The guide can also provide information about areas the driver cannot see, which is crucial when operating larger vehicles.

While sounding the horn only when necessary, checking mirrors, or trying to back up quickly may seem like viable options, they do not provide the same level of assurance and safety that having a guide offers during reversing maneuvers.