Alberta Motor Association (AMA) Learner’s Practice Exam

Before backing up your vehicle in a straight line, performing a 360-degree scan around your vehicle is essential for ensuring safety. This thorough visual check allows you to identify any obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles that may not be visible through mirrors alone. By physically looking around your vehicle, you can gain a complete understanding of your surroundings, which is critical in preventing accidents while reversing.

While checking mirrors is an important part of vehicle operation, it may not provide the complete view necessary for safe backing maneuvers. Signaling your intention is also a good practice; however, it does not replace the need for direct observation of your surroundings. Revving the engine is not a relevant action before backing up, as it does not contribute to the safety assessment needed prior to the maneuver. Thus, the comprehensive approach of a 360-degree scan is the most effective way to ensure the path is clear before reversing your vehicle.