Driveway death sparks call for more reversing cameras

Reversing cameras or parking sensors could help prevent more toddlers being killed in driveway accidents, say road safety groups.

The latest death saw two-year-old Ludahvick John Pomare Renata Grant killed by a car driven by a family friend reversing down a driveway in Wairoa in northern Hawke's Bay on Monday.

Five or six children were killed on New Zealand driveways each year, and on average there was an injury accident every two weeks, among the worst statistics in the world, said Safekids director Ann Weaver.

Reversing cameras and parking sensors could make drivers aware of dangers as they reversed, she told the Dominion Post.

However, the most important precaution was for drivers to check carefully before using driveways on properties with children, she said.

Automobile Association technical advice manager Jack Biddle said sensors were cheaper, easier to fit and probably more reliable.

Reversing cameras range from $300 to $950.

- NZPA