Rostra Precision Controls Inc. has introduced the all-new RearSentry™ Obstacle Sensing System, designed for fleet applications.

“Nationwide statistics show that the majority of at-fault accidents occur when backing up, and 27 percent of all accidents occur in reverse – that's one every 90 seconds,” said Thomas Weiss, vice president, Automotive Accessories Group, Rostra Precision Controls Inc. “Our RearSentry Obstacle Sensing System is designed specifically to help remedy these numbers.”

The RearSentry gives fleet vehicles an extra measure of safety, according to Weiss. The system is designed specifically for use in fleets, and is available for installation in a variety of local delivery and medium-sized trucks, utility vehicles, cargo vans and private equipment.

Operating like an extra set of eyes for drivers, the RearSentry detects objects that are not in clear view. It mounts out of sight behind or on the vehicle's rear bumper, and alerts drivers to obstacles up to 12 feet from the rear of the vehicle.

According to Weiss, it works in the dark, at night, and in even the poorest weather conditions like heavy fog, rain or snow. Weiss said this helps to protect employees and other personnel, and also reduces damage to the vehicle from backing into objects that are not in the driver's line of vision.

“Our RearSentry kit is the perfect answer for companies seeking to lower their operating costs by reducing the chances of an accident occurring,” Weiss added. “It's particularly useful for use in vehicles where it is difficult to see out the rear windows. The system can pay for itself if it prevents even one accident.”

Rostra's RearSentry system uses microwave technology to warn drivers when an obstacle is in their path. The driver is alerted through a series of audible beeps that increase in intensity as the object draws closer, and from an in-cab read-out display with green, yellow and red lights. RearSentry comes with a five-year, 50,000-mile warranty.

“Our company reviewed a number of different rear visibility and obstacle sensing technologies in order to develop a reasonable, cost-effective solution to reduce our personal and property insurance claim exposures,” said Karen E. Ber, manager, Fleet & Safety, Time Warner Cable of Englewood, Colo. “We are very satisfied with the results obtained thus far, and see the RearSentry product as a viable solution to substantially reduce our fleet's backing accidents. We really appreciate the RearSentry product features and benefits, and the service that our group has received.”

About Rostra Precision Controls Inc. Rostra Precision Controls Inc., headquartered in Laurinburg, N.C., is a supplier of vehicle speed control systems, transmission components and vehicle comfort seating systems to the global automotive aftermarket industry. The company also is a manufacturer of electronic controls, systems and components for the original equipment automotive industry. It holds ISO 9001 and QS 9000 certifications. For more information or to find a dealer for the RearSentry or other Rostra products, call 1-800-782-3379 or visit www.rostra.com.