Today there are products available that can be added to a vehicle that can prevent such a catastrophe. These include back up camera systems and back up radar.
A company called Rostra Precision Controls, based in Laurinburg, North Carolina, is now offering a Rear Sight Back-Up Camera System that prevents accidents like the one described. The unit is designed to be used on the 2008 Nissan Titan and the 2008 Ford F-150. The system includes a CCD color camera that mounts in the license plate section of the truck. The camera includes a 150 degree, anti-fog lens and a waterproof case. Also included is a 3.5-inch TFT-LCD monitor with a dashboard mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the dash of a Titan or F-150. The monitor features three video inputs and a reverse override function.
The company recommends that a professional installer place the system.