Safety Tips to Know This Child Passenger Safety Week

Did you know that approximately every 32 seconds a child under the age of 13 is involved in a passenger vehicle accident? September 15 – 21, 2019 is National Child Passenger Safety Week, and we are joining millions of Americans in raising awareness about the importance of always using car seats, boosters, and seat belts when children are in the vehicle. To help you keep your children safe while on the road, let us share with you a few safety tips this National Child Passenger Safety Week.

1. Use a car restraint.

Research tells us that car seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers. While most parents are confident that their child’s car seat is installed correctly, in as many as 59 percent of cases, this is not true. The majority of states have different laws regarding the age that a child must be restrained through a child restraint. In Florida, for example, the children ages six to 18 must be restrained by a seat belt, while those under the age of six must be restrained by a child restraint. 

2. Purchase a child rear facing car seat mirror. 

As a parent, particularly of a young child, you may find yourself frequently pulling over when driving to check on your child in the back seat. During your child’s first few months, experts recommend keeping your child rear facing when in the car for his or her safety. A rear facing car seat mirror can be helpful to keep a watchful eye of your child while he or she is in the back seat.

3. Never leave your child unattended in a vehicle.

It goes without saying, however, it is imperative that you never leave your child unattended in a vehicle. Regardless of the weather, whether your child is sleeping, or how long you plan on being away from the vehicle, accidents can occur at any time. During the summer months, it can take mere minutes for a vehicle to heat up to dangerous temperatures that can cause injury or death. 

Your child’s safety is important to us. Do you have questions? We are your local community law firm here to help you. In the event that an emergency situation arises and you need legal assistance, do not wait to contact our experienced local legal defense team at any time. We are standing by, ready to help you, twenty-four hours a day.