Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among children. This is because 46% of all car seats are misused, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The best way to ensure the safety of your children is make sure they are properly buckled up.
This week, the Texas Department of Public Safety issued the following tips:
- When selecting a car seat, make sure it fits properly in your vehicle.
- Do not purchase a car seat if you are not fully aware of its history.
- Lead by example. Make sure you are always wearing your seatbelt, so your children know its the right thing to do.
- For older children in booster seats, make sure the belt is across the pelvic region and the shoulder strap is across the shoulder. A seatbelt should never drape across a child's neck or abdomen area. It should never be under the arm or behind the back as it could cause severe injury in a crash.
- Texas law states all children younger than eight years old, unless taller than 4’9”, are required to be in the appropriate car seat whenever they ride in a passenger vehicle. The car seat MUST be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Children eight years or older must wear a seatbelt. If an adult hasn't properly restrained a child, they can receive a fine for $250.
