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While mechanical engineers have worked very hard to create designs for the safest child car seats possible, CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER SHERMAN OAKS would like to remind parents that well-designed car sears are only as good as diligent use and careful installation of those car seats. Parent mustensure car seats and booster seats are available, in use, and installed properly.

CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER SHERMAN OAKS want parents and others who transport children and youth those road injuries are the greatest single cause of preventable deaths and injuries to North American children. Properly used child safety seats will reduce the risk of death by almost 75% percent.

Tips for Car Seat Use

• Almost 75% of car seats are not available or are not installed correctly according to police safety checks
• NEVER transport a child without a child’s car seat. It’s the law.
• Before you start your trip, always check your child’s car seat. This check takes less than fifteen minutes.

Quick Checklist

1. Make sure the seat is the right size: Check the label on your car seat to make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s age, weight and height. These labels have an expiration date. Make sure the seat is still current.
2. Make sure the car seat and child are in the right place. Kids ride in the backseat until they are thirteen.
3. Is the child facing the right direction? Until children are two or outgrows the backward facing seat, they should face backward.
4. Give the seat the inch test before you head out. Give it a good shake at the base. Can you move it more than an inch side to side or front to back? If it is properly installed, the car seat will not move more than an inch.
5. Make sure the harness is tightly buckled and is coming from the correct slots. With the chest clip placed at armpit level, pinch the strap at the child’s shoulder. There should not be any excess webbing.

If these things check out, you are ready to roll.

• Attend a safety check run by local law enforcement officers to make sure you have installed your car seat properly. Free courses on correct installation are also available.
• Don’t buy a used car seat unless you know its crash history. Buy from someone you trust. Avoid garage sales, thrift shops and online sales like eBay and Kajiji.

• Be a good role model. Always buckle up. It’s the law.

• Make sure everyone in your car is buckled in.

• Never leave any child alone in your car, ever.

If you or a child has suffered an injury due to an automobile accident contact CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER SHERMAN OAKS to discuss whether you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.