Get out and check
Reverse slowly
Rev your engine
Sound your horn
The official DVSA guide to driving states:
All-round observation is just as important when you’re reversing as it is when you’re going forward.
- Check for other road users before you reverse; motorcycles, cyclists and pedestrians are more difficult to see.
- Check to the rear, particularly for children playing behind the vehicle.
- Check all round – forward, behind, over both shoulders and in all mirrors. Do this before you reverse.
- If in doubt, get out and check.
- Keep checking all the time you’re moving backwards, particularly behind you and to the sides, and especially at the point of turning.
Always be ready to stop.