When is a site vehicle most likely to injure pedestrians?

A site vehicle is most likely to injure pedestrians while reversing due to several factors that increase the risk during this movement. When a vehicle is in reverse, the driver has a limited field of vision, making it difficult to see pedestrians who may be behind the vehicle. This blind spot can obscure the presence of individuals who might be directly in the path of the reversing vehicle.

Additionally, operators often rely on mirrors, which can still miss crucial areas where pedestrians may be standing or walking. The speed at which vehicles reverse can also pose a greater risk, as they may not be able to stop quickly enough if someone suddenly enters their path.

In busy construction or site environments, where pedestrians are moving around machinery and vehicles, the lack of visibility combined with the unpredictable movements of people significantly heightens the risk of accidents. Therefore, proper safety measures such as reversing alarms, designated pedestrian pathways, and the use of trained spotters are crucial in these situations to mitigate the risk of injury.