Protect Your Kids by Using the Right Safety Seats

by

Michael D. Ponce

Last Updated October 9, 2019 In Car Accident

Children are among the most vulnerable occupants of any type of vehicles during accidents. To help make children safer during crashes, it’s vital to securely buckle them into car seats. However, car seats are only truly effective if they’re the right size and fit for the children using them. When car seats are too big or too small, the protection they offer may be inadequate, and that can put children at risk.

There are three main types of car seats for children of different ages. They include:

• Rear-facing car seat—This type of car seat is used for infants and babies until they weigh around 40 pounds. It provides the most protection for very young children during crashes.
• Forward-facing car seat—This type of car seat should be used for older children, including toddlers.
• Booster seat—Booster seats are designed to make seat belts work more effectively for bigger children. Remember to always place your booster seat in the back seat of your vehicle.

Children can switch to riding unassisted with only the use of a seat belt between the ages of 8 and 12 years old. However, they should still continue to ride in the back seat until they’re around 12 or 13 years old, as airbags can be dangerous to them during crashes.

Even the most cautionary parents and drivers can still be involved in accidents—and that’s where we come in. If you or your child were hurt in a crash caused by a negligent driver, the Nashville auto accident lawyers at Ponce Law want to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.