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Car Seat Safety: What Every Parent Needs To Know

By Lita Aeder, M.D.

If you had to transport a precious piece of jewelry to its destination, wouldn't you take the utmost precaution to deliver it safely? Yet, every year in the United States many children die or are injured in car crashes because they're not properly restrained in a motor vehicle. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death among children.

You can decrease the risk of automobile-related injury or death to your child by following these guidelines:

* All children under 40 lbs. (up to about 4 years of age) should be strapped into car seats.

* When purchasing a car seat, make sure that it meets federal standards (it will say so on the box).

* When borrowing or buying a used car seat, make sure that it's never been involved in a car accident.

* Read the car seat's instruction booklet carefully prior to installation. Also, review your car's owner's manual to insure proper use of your car's restraints with the seat. If you are required to install a locking clip on the seat belt, the car seat manufacturer should have provided you with one.
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