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Moving On
As they learned more about back-over accidents, the Clemenses found that backup precaution technology -- sensors and wide-range cameras -- has been available to car manufacturers since the mid-1990s. But it wasn't until a few years ago that sensors and cameras began to be offered as standard features on high-end models. On less-expensive vehicles from brands such as Toyota, Honda and Subaru, sensors and cameras are still typically offered as options -- and range in price from as little as a few hundred dollars for sensors alone to $8,000 or more for a package complete with a camera.Most auto companies do not refer to the devices as safety features. "These are parking aids," says Bob Yakushi, director of product safety for Nissan, North America. "They aren't a substitute for looking around when you back up. One question for parents is, Do you know where your children are?"
Alan Adler, safety spokesperson for GM, adds, "We think the devices have some value, but you can't rely on them alone. Safety is also a matter of personal responsibility and visual inspection."
Says Consumer Reports auto safety test expert David Champion, "Auto manufacturers don't want to call them safety devices, because if they fail -- and they will, because even with the best cameras, there's not 100 percent visibility -- they could be held liable."
David Clemens insists that had he and his wife known that backup safety technology was available when they bought their 2003 Infiniti SUV, they would have "purchased it in a heartbeat." As a result, in 2004, the Clemenses filed a civil suit against Nissan, the parent company of Infiniti, but lost the case when the court ruled that "Nissan was neither negligent nor misrepresented their product."
Shortly thereafter, Rachel filed for divorce, and the couple began living apart. Last fall, they got back together and are attempting to work things out. "We're trying to move on," says Rachel.
To date, more than 40 members of both the House and Senate have signed on as cosponsors of the Cameron Gulbransen Kids and Cars bill. Senator Hillary Clinton plans to reintroduce it this year.
Back in Dix Hills, Heidi Nelson was born in February 2005. "She's a blessing," says Adriann. "She's a little clone of Alec, so happy and easygoing."
Alfred Raschdorf agrees. "Alec always came running to me with his arms open, and Heidi is the same. She is not a replacement for Alec, but she has helped everyone feel more alive."
This June, another Nelson baby is due. Then, when people ask the Nelsons about their family, Bill will tell them, "We have four wonderful children here with us, and another one in heaven."
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