Van Zandt Accident Lawyer Offers 3 Tips for Choosing Safe Car Seats for Children

Your child is your most precious cargo. Fortunately, advances in car safety features have made vehicles safer for young children.

 

Despite new technology, serious accidents are often unpreventable. One of the most important steps you can take to keep young passengers secure is to install an appropriate car seat. Most people are unaware that several factors determine which seat is ideal for a child. These include age, weight and height.

As outlined by the Texas Department of Public Safety, state laws require that drivers take certain steps to keep young passengers safe. Unfortunately, even the most responsible motorists cannot control the actions of negligent drivers.

If you or your child was injured in an accident that a negligent driver caused, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Mr. Cooper is a Van Zandt accident lawyer who can assess the crash and determine if you may have a valid claim for medical expenses, lost wages and other damages. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at 903-297-0037.

Until then, read on to learn how to choose a car seat for your child:

1. Use Rear-Facing Car Seats for Children under 12 Months Old

Children from birth to 12 months old should sit in rear-facing car seats at all times, according to SaferCar.gov. You can purchase either an infant-specific seat that will only work in a rear-facing configuration, or you can opt for a convertible seat that can adjust to your growing child.

It is important to keep your child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible. He or she should remain in this seat until his or her weight and height have reached the seat’s manufacturer limit.

2. Use Forward-Facing Seats When Your Child Is Ready

Place your child in a forward-facing car seat when he or she meets the manufacturer’s requirements. This usually happens between 1 and 3 years old.

The seat should have a harness and a tether for added safety. Forward-facing seats are appropriate for most children between the ages of 4 and 7.

3. Next, Upgrade to a Booster Seat

When your child grows too big for a forward-facing car seat, you can upgrade him or her to a booster seat. Most children should stay in a booster seat until they are at least 12 years old.

The booster seat should allow the lap belt to lie snugly across the thighs and traverse the shoulder and chest. Make sure it is not crossing the stomach, neck or face.

Once your child grows too big for the booster seat, you can consider moving him or her into a regular seat. This usually happens between the ages of 8 and 12. It is still important, however, to seat the child in the back for safety reasons.

If you or your children have sustained injuries in a car accident, then a Van Zandt accident attorney from the Cooper Law Firm may be able to help you recover compensation from the at-fault party. Call 903-297-0037 today to schedule a consultation.