“Danger In Reverse” is a 1951 commercial driver training film made by the Vogue-Wright Studios on behalf of the National Association of Automotive Mutual Insurance Companies. It uses trucks from the Chicago-based Willett Truck Leasing Co. fleet as part of the production. The film was part of a series called “Commercial Driver Training”.

The film uses a slide show technique, as well as simple cartoons and live-action footage, to educate drivers about the dangers of backing up. The narrative presents a conversation between truckers Pete and Andy G, where Pete mentions he backed into a guard post. Andy G discusses the dangers of backing up and how it could have been worse, emphasizing that careless backing is a leading cause of accidents. He recalls a fleet course on backing, sharing tips such as avoiding backing whenever possible, ensuring the way is clear, using a guide if necessary, and backing cautiously. Andy G also highlights the unnatural movement of backing up and offers to show Pete how to do it properly. He explains how to avoid backing by planning routes and not overshooting stops, discusses necessary backing and the importance of checking clearances, and explains sight side and blind side backing. Andy G emphasizes cautious backing and not relying on horns, summarizing the key points and stressing the importance of careful backing for expert truckers.

0:00 – 0:27: Introduction with music.

0:27 – 0:40: Pete and Andy G greet each other. Pete mentions he backed into a guard post.

0:40 – 1:14: Discussion about the dangers of backing up and how it could have been worse.

1:14 – 1:45: Andy G explains that careless backing is a leading cause of accidents and shares examples.

1:45 – 2:19: Andy G recalls a fleet course on backing and shares tips: avoid backing, ensure the way is clear, use a guide if necessary, and back cautiously.

2:19 – 2:50: Andy G emphasizes the unnatural movement of backing up and shares a personal anecdote.

2:50 – 3:04: Andy G offers to show Pete how to back up properly.

3:04 – 3:47: Andy G explains how to avoid backing by planning routes and not overshooting stops. A 1950 Studebaker is shown behind a truck, where a pedestrian might cross between the car and the rear of the truck.

3:47 – 4:24: Andy G discusses necessary backing and the importance of checking clearances.

4:24 – 5:03: Andy G explains the importance of checking clearances, including the top and front end swing. The driver at 4:49 has a crazy hat adorned with pins.

5:03 – 5:39: Andy G explains sight side and blind side backing and the use of a guide.

5:39 – 6:18: Andy G emphasizes cautious backing and not relying on horns.

6:18 – 7:04: Andy G summarizes the key points: avoid backing, ensure the way is clear, and back cautiously.

7:04 – 7:35: Andy G concludes by stressing the importance of careful backing for expert truckers.

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