Backing Up On Delaware Roadways

§ 4184. Limitations on backing.
(a) The driver of a vehicle shall not back the same unless such movement can be made with safety and without interfering with other traffic.

QUESTION: Is it legal to drive your vehicle BACKWARDS on Delaware roadways?

ANSWER: It depends! Read § 4184 above. If you can drive BACKWARDS “with safety and without interfering with other traffic” then the answer is yes. However, “The D Team” “Smart Defense” strongly suggests the backing of a motor vehicle be restricted to the most reasonable option available.

HINT: Even if you believe the backing of your vehicle was done “with safety and without interfering with other traffic” it will be your word against the word of the police officer. Guess whom the judge will believe?

QUESTION: Is it legal to drive your vehicle BACKWARDS in order to return to the exit you just missed on a controlled access highway?

ANSWER: It depends! Read § 4184 above. If you can drive BACKWARDS “with safety and without interfering with other traffic” then the answer is yes. NOT SO FAST: There is a specific Delaware Law that prohibits BACKING on a controlled access roadway – see below § 4126.

§ 4126. Unlawful use of controlled-access highways; penalties.
(a) On any state highway designated by the Department of Transportation as a “controlled-access highway,” no person shall:
(6) Back a vehicle upon any shoulder or roadway;

SPECIAL ALERT: If there is the potential of any small children in the immediate area you will be BACKING into – a physical check of that area is paramount!