Backing up, backing into parking spaces, and parallel parking may not result in as many fatalities and serious injuries as high-speed driving, but these low-speed driving situations account for a significant portion of all accidents. The main reason that backing up leads to so many accidents is that cars and trucks have blind spots that make it difficult to see pedestrians, cars, and other objects. There are a number of ways to eliminate these blind spots, but backup cameras and parking sensors are two of the most common.

Blind spot mirrors can be helpful when reversing, but a well-placed camera can effectively eliminate blind spots. These cameras are also easier to use, since the video screen is often integrated into the dashboard. This is especially helpful for people with limited mobility, who may find it difficult to physically turn around to check blind spots.

Most blind spot cameras use fisheye lenses, which provide a very wide angle view of what's behind a vehicle by creating a kind of barrel lens distortion. Fisheye lenses aren't very good at picking up distant objects, but that's not a problem for purpose-built backup cameras. Some blind spot cameras also have a built-in light or a night vision feature so they can be used in the dark.

Parking sensors perform the same function as rear-view cameras, but they do not provide visual information. Instead, they are designed to warn the driver if there are obstacles in the way. If a child or animal walks behind the vehicle while it is reversing, this type of sensor can trigger an alarm that allows the driver to stop in time.