Did you know that three out of every four parents and guardians are installing their child’s car seat incorrectly? According to SaferCar.gov, car accidents continue to be the number one cause of death for children in the U.S. between the ages of 1 and 15.
This is why it’s now more important that ever than we take the necessary precautions — young passengers can’t fend for themselves.
Our Sunrise car accident lawyers understand that seat belts and car seats are our number one defense against injury and death in the event of a car accident. These devices are virtually useless when we’re not using them properly. That’s why officials with SaferCar are working to help to educate adults around the country on ways to ensure that each child is properly buckled in during each and every car ride.
As a matter of fact, officials recently released a new booklet — A Parent’s Guide to Playing It Safe with Kids and Cars. Its purpose is to make sure that adults are doing it right.
In addition to helping to properly buckle our children, the booklet is helping to make sure that children are safe when they’re around the vehicle.
You’re going to be provided with:
-Guidelines for choosing the right car safety seat for your child. This is going to make sure that your child is protected as best they can in the event of a car accident.
-How to sift through the ease-of-use ratings. You want to make sure that you choose a car seat that meets your needs and works in your life.
-Tips in installing your child’ car seat. If you’re going to do it — you had better do it right.
-The dangers that accompany children when they’re in and around your vehicle. There are more dangers that being a passenger in a vehicle.
To get you started, we’re here with a few key reminders to help to make sure your little one is protect at all times. First, you want to make sure that they’re properly buckled during every car ride — even the ones just down the street. Secondly, you want to make sure they’re in the right seat — based on their age and size. Your best bet is to look at and follow the directions from the seat’s manufacturer. Third, you want to make sure that the car seat is compatible with the seats in your vehicle. Lastly, it’s important to remember that you want to keep all children under the age of 12 in the back seat. Their little bodies can’t handle the impact of an exploding airbag.
By following all of these safety precautions, and by taking a gander at the “A Parent’s Guide to Playing It Safe with Kids and Cars” booklet from SaferCar.gov, you can help to ensure your child’s safe in your car on our roadways.
Remember: Accidents happen. It’s how we prepare for them that makes the difference.
Call Freeman, Mallard, Sharp & Gonzalez — 1-800-561-7777 for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights.
More Blog Entries:
Child Passenger Safety Week Kicks Off, Parents Listen Up!, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog, September 19, 2012
Risks of Child Injury in Hollandale Increase with Rising Temps, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog, April 21, 2012