A parent’s heartbreak at seeing their child hurt is unmatched. The guilt of having your child injured in a traffic accident while you are driving can be overwhelming. It can be difficult for parents to second-guess whether they could have prevented injury from the child, even if they are not at fault.

Unfortunately, one estimate suggests that approximately 650 children are killed each year in car accidents. Another estimates that almost 150,000 children sustain injuries. Research has shown that motor vehicle accidents cause more deaths than twice as many children each year. These alarming statistics have prompted many national organizations to take various measures to encourage child restraint systems. Although the suggestions made by these agencies might differ, the ultimate goal is to reduce the number of children who are injured or killed in car accidents.

What are the key features to look for in a child restraint?

Make sure you check the label on your car safety seat. It’s likely that the seat was manufactured in your child’s lifetime and has been approved for use on both air and car travel. Aim for a 16-inch width or narrower seat. Some airline seats have arms that can be folded up to make it possible for you to fit larger safety seats. Others do not. Car seats are not allowed in the aisles or centers of seats as they can block escape routes. Your lucky child will get the window seat. Pre-boarding procedures are available at the airline so that flight attendants can ensure your child’s safety before other passengers.

A booster seat is required for children whose size exceeds that recommended by the manufacturer. This requirement can be exempted in certain circumstances. If the driver is not a family member of the child, the four- and five-year-old may use a seatbelt if the child is unable to be in a booster or emergency seat.

When a child is old enough to wear a seatbelt, it’s important to keep them in the back seat. Remember that even if you only have one child in your car, it is safer to buckle them in the middle of the backseat.

If you rush to ensure your child’s safety, it can become a hassle. It is worth the extra time if your child is safe. When using a child restraint system, if you are uncertain about how to install it properly and safely, always check the manufacturer’s instructions or you can visit http://cert.safekids.org/get-car-seat-checked to find a certified child passenger safety technician in your area, or you can find a directory of inspection locations on the NHTSA website.

While it is obvious that safety for our children is paramount to us, we can help you with any traffic tickets for child safety restraint violations. Message us at Paul Flood Automotive or give us a call at (02) 9525 0474 and get a free consultation. You can also visit our office at Miranda, Caringbah, and Taren Point.