Vehicular accidents are the second leading cause of death for American children, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Reports also reveal that over 162,000 children sustained injuries in car accidents in 2021 alone.
Car seats are manufactured specifically for car crash protection and are designed to hold children safely. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation reveal that in 2017, car seats saved 325 children under 5 years old in accidents. This shows how effective they are in securing children in case of road accidents.
Because of this, parents must understand the critical features of a quality car seat and choose the right one for their children.
Below, we’ll talk about the different types of car seats, key features to consider, and tips for buying one.
No one car seat applies to kids of all ages and sizes. Specific seats are ideal for infants, while others are best for older kids. Choosing the right one can mean the difference between protection and lack thereof during a collision.
There are three types of car seats available.
The rear-facing car seat is the best option for newborns and small babies. These seats cradle and move with your child in a crash. The design reduces the impact of a collision. It also protects the baby’s fragile neck and spine.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to use rear-facing car seats for as long as possible. Although these seats are made for newborns to 12-month-old infants, young children should continue using them for as long as possible, provided they haven’t reached the manufacturer’s maximum height or weight. The maximum size varies depending on the model but the standard maximum height for rear-facing car seats is between 30 to 35 inches and the maximum weight is between 28 to 35 pounds.
Once a child reaches a rear-facing seat’s top height and weight, it’s time to switch to a forward-facing seat. This car seat is ideal for kids between 1-7 years old. As the name suggests, the seat faces the front of the vehicle. A forward-facing car seat has a harness and latch system that prevents the child from going forward in case of a crash. The standard maximum weight for a forward-facing seat is between 40 and 120 pounds, and the maximum height is 4 feet and 9 inches.
A booster seat is ideal for kids ages 4 to 12 or if the child has reached the manufacturer’s top height and weight of a forward-facing seat. A booster lifts the child to get the correct position of a seat belt.
Other car seats include the convertible, which can be rear and forward-facing, and the all-in-one variant. The latter is convertible, from rear-facing to forward-facing to a booster seat.
All car seats sold in the market pass through the same safety standards and certifications. However, it is still important to know the key features of a quality car seat. That way, you understand how your car seat can protect and keep your child safe in a moving vehicle.
This is the standard for car seat harness systems. It ensures the best protection for your child. It features straps over the shoulders, between the legs, and around the hips. A chest clip is another important feature that prevents kids from going forward in a collision.
LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. The anchor is a metal bar in the seat, while the tether is a hook behind or above the seat. It is an alternative system for car seat installation that prevents common issues associated with using vehicle seat belts.
Choose a car seat with ample cushioning and padding and proper neck and head support. Enhanced padding on the sides of the car seat also provides added protection.
The car seats should adhere to safety standards and certifications, including the FMVSS 213 or Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard and other certifications by the NHTSA.
Ease of use is a feature that’s crucial, especially for new parents. Straightforward instructions, simple installation, and clear labeling help parents install car seats correctly and safely.
Related reading: Are Perodua Car Seats Good for Toddlers? Care for Your Kids in Cars!
Before heading out and buying a car seat, here are a few things you need to know:
Even if you buy the most expensive model you can find, it will only matter if you correctly install it in your car. A study by a children’s hospital in Portland revealed newborn parents are increasing the risk of their babies for injuries in a collision with improper car seat installation and wrong positioning.
Although buying second-hand helps with your budget, it may not be the best idea when buying car seats. Car seats have an expiration date, typically between 6 and 10 years from the date of first use. Materials can degrade and go through wear and tear. Safety standards are also changing in the industry.
Keep in mind that car seat manufacturers have recalled certain products and models over the years. If you intend to buy one, check with the NHTSA, which has a list of recalled car seats.
Not all car seats are compatible with all kinds of vehicles. To ensure proper fit, measure the area where you intend to put the seat. Then, compare this measurement to the dimensions of the car seat base.
Car seats and booster seats are proven to protect infants and children in the event of a car accident. That is why selecting the best car seat for your child is essential to help keep them safe while on the road. You must prioritize key features, such as a 5-harness system, safety standard certification, comfort, and ease of use. These features play an important role in preventing or reducing potential injuries in a collision.
Proper installation is also crucial. Additionally, avoid buying used car seats and make sure they’re compatible with your vehicle. Remember that car seats have an expiration date, and product recalls also occur.
Your child’s safety is paramount. Investing in a top-quality car seat can give you peace of mind while on the road.
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