Coroner cites value of reversing cameras

Coroner David Crerar said he wanted to draw people's attention to the availability of safety aids. Photo / Thinkstock

A coroner has drawn attention to the rear-vision cameras drivers can fit to their cars to reduce the risk of hitting people when reversing.

Coroner David Crerar made the comment in his finding about the death of a 7-year-old boy hit by a vehicle being driven by his father.

Brodie Jacob Molloy had placed his motorbike behind his father Nigel Molloy's ute in their Wallacetown driveway so his dad could load it in to the vehicle.

His father needed to unload the deck of the ute before he could load the motorbike in, and reversed the ute towards a paddock.

Mr Molloy had turned and looked behind the ute before he reversed.

But he had not seen Brodie or his motorbike, which was parked in a blind spot, and he thought his son was still riding the bike around the yard.

Mr Crerar said it would be inappropriate for him to recommend all vehicles be retrofitted with safety aids such as reversing cameras, but he wanted to draw people's attention to their availability.

He cited the responsibility all drivers have to make sure the way is clear and safe before they move.