NHTSA increasing research into back-up technology systems, accident prevention

Consumer advocates, parents say tall SUVs, crossovers exacerbate problem

Some safety advocates calling for mandated backover-detection systems

Others say biggest factor is parental denial: "They really think it can't happen to them"

Backup-technology systems not marketed as way to detect children behind vehicle

Technology slow in coming to market, often available only w/ much more expensive systems

Kids and Cars estimates 474 children killed in backover accidents between 2002-2006

Vs 138 from 1997-2001, based on police/media reports, lawyers, NHTS discussions

NHTSA can't verify that problem increasing

But says current backup-detection technology "expensive, unreliable and gives drivers a false sense of security"

Most back-up cameras available only as part of satellite navigation systems

Cameras cost about $300-$600 but satellite system costs up to $2K