Car Seat Safety Dos and Don’ts

As a parent of young child, their safety is always your biggest priority. But did you know that they are most at risk for serious injuries when they’re traveling in your vehicle, especially for children ages 5-19?

Unfortunately, the modern safety innovations in vehicles—namely, seat belts and air bags—aren’t designed to protect kids. They’re designed to protect older teens and adults, and in fact, they can put kids at further risk during crashes.

That’s why car seats are essential for all children, and there are various types of seats for kids up until they are around 12 years old. However, many parents may not know best practices for using car seats. Here are a few dos and don’ts:

• Do use the right car seat for your child’s age and size—Car seats aren’t one-size-fits-all. The CDC’s website contains more information about car seats for children as they grow.
• Don’t re-use a damaged car seat or buy a used car seat—Car seats are only at their maximum safety effectiveness when they’re new and undamaged. Car seats that have been involved in accidents can put kids at risk.
• Do learn how to properly secure your car seat—Car seats protect kids during crashes, but they must be restrained with seat belts for maximum safety. Consult your car seat manual, vehicle manual, and online guides for help setting yours up.
• Don’t place your child in their car seat while wearing a thick coat—Thick jackets and coats can compress during crashes, making car seats too loose to properly secure children. That can put them at risk of serious injuries.

At Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers, we know that children are among the most vulnerable people during crashes. When they’re hurt because of negligent drivers, it’s our goal to get their families maximum compensation. Contact our Green Bay auto accident lawyers today for a free consultation if you, your child, or someone you love was hurt in a crash that wasn’t your fault.