When backing up a combination vehicle, what should you prioritize?

When backing up a combination vehicle, having a spotter and staying aware of your surroundings should be a top priority. This approach significantly enhances safety by providing an additional layer of awareness that mirrors alone cannot offer. Spotters can look out for obstacles, pedestrians, and other vehicles that may be outside the driver's line of sight. Their assistance allows for safer maneuvering in tight spaces and contributes to better overall situational awareness.

While using mirrors is important, relying solely on them can limit a driver's perspective and lead to blind spots. Moving quickly is generally not advisable because haste can lead to mistakes or oversights, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, while backup alarms are useful for alerting others to the vehicle's movement, they do not replace the need for visual checks and external assistance. Therefore, prioritizing communication and awareness through a spotter is the safest and most effective strategy when backing up a combination vehicle.