Is your child’s car seat safe? A car seat keeps the child in place in the event of a crash or sudden stop. The car seat harness slows the child’s movement, reducing injuries and often saving lives. (Seat belts provide similar functionality for adults.)
The best way to make sure that a car seat is effective is to ensure that it is installed and used properly. In this blog post, we’ll share strategies for using a car seat correctly.
Select the Right Size and Direction
Be sure to choose the correct car seat size for the child’s age, weight and height. Be sure to use the car seat that fits your child now; don’t choose a car seat for the child to “grow in to.” Babies should never be placed in booster seats.
Make sure that the car seat is facing the right direction. Children under age two are safest when rear facing. Harness straps should be snug, and the retainer clip connecting the shoulder harness straps should be kept at the child’s armpit level. For more information, check the instructions on your child’s car seat.
Indiana Child Restraint Law
According to Indiana’s Child Restraint Law, all children under age eight are required to be properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat according to manufacturer instructions. In Indiana, children under the age of one year and less than 20 pounds must be in a rear-facing car seat. Kids who are at least 30 pounds can use a booster seat, but parents are encouraged to keep them in a front-facing seat until they weigh at least 40 pounds.
Check Car Seat Installation
After installing the car seat according to manufacturer instructions, test it to make sure it is installed correctly. Shake the car seat at the base (where the seat belt fits). If you are able to use it more than an inch from side to side or front to back, the car seat is installed incorrectly.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to an automobile accident, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
