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Tips for Keeping Your Kids Safe During Child Passenger Safety Month

Buckle up because your child’s life may depend on it! September is Child Passenger Safety Month, a national reminder for parents and caregivers to reassess how they keep their children safe on the road.

Car crashes remain one of the primary causes of death and injury for children in the U.S., and many of these tragedies are preventable with proper car seat use. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 35% of children under age 12 who were killed in car crashes in 2022 weren’t properly restrained at the time of the accident.

As experienced car accident lawyers serving families across St. Louis, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating crashes can be, especially when children are involved. Here’s how to protect your child at every age and stage.

Use the Right Car Seat for Your Child’s Age and Size

The first step to protecting your child in the car is choosing the correct car seat. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the following guidelines:

  • Rear-facing seats for infants and toddlers, ideally until at least age two or until they reach the seat’s maximum height or weight limit.
  • Forward-facing seats with a harness for toddlers and preschoolers once they outgrow the rear-facing seat.
  • Booster seats for school-aged children until seat belts fit them properly (usually when they’re 4 feet 9 inches tall and between 8 and 12 years old).
  • Seat beltsfor older kids who have outgrown boosters, always in the back seat until at least age 13.

The right seat depends not just on age, but also on your child’s size and development. Using the wrong seat or prematurely transitioning to the next stage can put your child at risk of severe injury during a crash.

Have Your Car Seat Inspected by a Certified Technician

Even the best car seat can’t do its job if installed incorrectly. Unfortunately, studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that up to 59% of car seats (excluding booster seats) are misused or installed improperly. In a broader estimate including all restraint types, 46% of car seats and booster seats were found to be misused.

That’s why we strongly recommend having your car seat inspected by a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST). These trained professionals can ensure your seat is the right fit for your child and vehicle, and that it’s securely and correctly installed.

Many organizations in the St. Louis area, including local fire departments, police stations, and children’s hospitals, offer free car seat checks during Child Passenger Safety Month and throughout the year.

To find a CPST near you, use NHTSA’s inspection station locator.

Always Double-Check Installation and Straps Before Every Ride

Proper car seat safety starts with checking the installation before each trip:

  • Ensure the seat is still securely installed (especially if you move it between vehicles).
  • Ensure the harness straps are snug and lie flat without twists.
  • Check that the chest clip is at armpit level, not too high or low.
  • In cold weather, avoid bulky coats under harnesses; use a blanket over the straps instead.

It’s also a good idea to register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive important recall or safety notifications.

Set a Good Example: Buckle Up Every Time

Kids pay attention, and what they see you do matters. Always buckle your seat belt, even if you’re just driving around the corner. Explain to your children why it’s important and make it part of your routine. When children see that seat belt use is non-negotiable for everyone in the car, they’re more likely to develop safe habits themselves.

After a Crash, Get Help from Experienced Legal Advocates

If you or your child is injured in a car accident, you may be dealing with more than just a totaled vehicle. Medical expenses, emotional trauma, and long-term care needs can quickly become overwhelming, especially when a child is involved.

Our St. Louis car accident lawyers at Cofman Townsley are ready to help you protect your family’s future.

Contact Cofman Townsley Today for a Free Consultation

Child Passenger Safety Month is a great time to double-check that your children are adequately protected in every ride. But if the worst happens, we’re here to help.

Call the experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers at Cofman Townsley for a free, no-obligation consultation and the trusted legal support your family deserves.