September 4, 2015 | Blog
By Indiana state law, a child traveling in a motor vehicle is required to be restrained in an age-appropriate car seat each and every time that vehicle is being driven. Often, simple errors can put that child’s life in danger, as we have seen from time to time right here in Indianapolis. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ recently suggested guidelines calling for exclusive use of rear-facing car seats for infants and toddlers until they reach the age of two, followed by forward-facing seats until they grow out of them. They further recommended booster seats be used until the child is approximately 4’9”, or between 8-12 years old.
In addition to causing approximately 179,000 child injuries a year, car crashes are the leading cause of death for children older than three. And while child car seats are estimated to cut the risk of death by 54-71 percent, depending on the child’s age, this is only if they are used properly. While every seat is unique and manufacturer guidelines should always be followed, there are some specifics to be aware of with every car seat installation. Specific tips and guidelines to follow can be found here: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Car-Safety-Seats-Information-for-Families.aspx.
If you are concerned that your child’s car seat may not be properly installed, there are places where you can have them checked for safety; including, the Indianapolis Fire Department, Franciscan St. Francis Health, Firefighters’ Survive Alive! Inc. and the Decatur Township Fire Department. For a complete listing of sites around the state of Indiana, visit http://www.preventinjury.org/Child-Passenger-Safety/Child-Safety-Seat-Inspection-Stations. Also check out the Babble Out car sear for infants.