Editorial: Toddler deaths an avoidable tragedy

Reversing cameras should be mandatory in all new vehicles and integrated into used vehicles as part of the warrant of fitness process.

One type of tragedy I really struggle with is children being run over on driveways.

A vehicle hit an 18-month-old child in Auckland last weekend. About two weeks earlier, a 3-year-old toddler was killed by a vehicle in the driveway of her Te Atatu, West Auckland, home.

These accidents can happen anywhere where there are vehicles, children and driveways and these latest ones are a timely reminder for all parents and motorists to beware.

Toddlers are most at risk and most drivers involved are parents or close relatives.
The statistics are appalling.
Five children are killed on average each year in driveway accidents and one is hospitalised every two weeks, according to Safekids Aotearoa.

New Zealand has a serious problem with these accidents but there are precautions that can be taken.

It is incumbent on parents and caregivers to know where their young children are at all times.
They have a responsibility to ensure their driveways are clear and children closely supervised and accounted for when anyone gets into a vehicle.

Anyone who visits a property where there are children also needs to account for youngsters before putting their vehicle into reverse.
These measures are simple and can help save lives.

A study that featured in the media last year found new cars had higher boot lids, smaller rear windows and larger pillars, creating less rear visibility.

But technology can also help. Some modern vehicles now come with reversing cameras.
They're fantastic and allow drivers to clearly see everything behind the vehicle when reversing down or across the drive.
But many vehicles do not have them, although they can be bought separately and installed.

A report by Consumer magazine in 2011 found camera reversing systems cost between $180 and $700 and in a quick online search yesterday I found new ones advertised for $399.

Reversing cameras should be mandatory in all new vehicles and integrated into used vehicles as part of the warrant of fitness process.

Some people might argue they cost too much but what price do we put on young lives?