Car accidents and children

The Importance of Child Car Safety: Facts, Risks, and Prevention

When we drive, we sometimes notice children who are not properly secured in vehicles, or who are not buckled up at all. Unfortunately, many parents underestimate the risks of car accidents and the potential harm to their children.

However, statistics reveal some alarming truths about car accidents involving children. Many of these tragedies could have been prevented if parents took just a few extra seconds to ensure their child’s safety by using appropriate car seats and seat belts.

This guide will provide essential information on child car safety, including statistics, common mistakes, and preventive measures to keep children secure while traveling.

Statistics about children and car accidents

Many parents disregard car accident statistics, assuming they are exaggerated or designed to instill fear. However, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlight the reality of the dangers faced by children in motor vehicle crashes:

• Correctly used child safety seats can reduce the risk of death by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers (NHTSA, 2022).
• Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death among children in the U.S.
• In 2021, 710 children (aged 12 and younger) died in car crashes, and over 63,000 were injured (CDC, 2023).
• 40% of children who died in car accidents were unrestrained (NHTSA, 2022).
• A study found that 618,000 children rode in vehicles without proper child restraints or seat belts at least once in a given year (CDC, 2023).

Did you know that infants have a much less chance of getting injuries?

Interestingly, statistics show that infants are less likely to be injured in car accidents compared to toddlers. This is largely because parents tend to be more diligent in securing infants in car seats, whereas toddlers, who often resist being strapped in, may be allowed to ride unrestrained.

To prevent injuries, parents must be as strict with toddlers as they are with infants. Ensuring that children are always securely fastened in a car seat or seat belt significantly reduces the risk of injury or death

Most car accidents occur close to our home

Many parents believe that short trips—such as a quick run to the grocery store or a visit to a friend’s house—are not dangerous. However, studies show that most accidents occur within a five-mile radius of home.

This misconception leads some parents to let their children ride without a car seat or seat belt for “just a short trip.” This is a serious mistake. Always secure your child, no matter how short the journey.

Children and accident injuries where they weren’t even in a car

We always just think about children that are getting injured in car accidents, where they were inside the vehicle. But, there are many reports about children getting run over by a vehicle that is also causing death and serious injuries. We have read the stories where parents have backed over there own children in the driveway. Be aware of where your children are.

It is our responsibility as parents to make sure that you are teaching your child that streets are dangerous and that they should not play near the street.
And, if they are riding their bikes, to stay in the lane for the bikes or on the side of the road. Children deaths in car accidents, don’t always happen with a child inside the car.

How to Prevent Child Injuries in Car Accidents

Here are some key safety measures parents can take to protect their children:

1. Always Buckle Up, No Matter How Short the Trip

• Never start the car unless your child is secured in a properly fitted car seat, booster seat, or seat belt.
• Children under 13 years old should always ride in the back seat (AAP, 2023).

2. Replace Car Seats After an Accident

• Car seats can sustain unseen damage in even minor crashes. Always replace a car seat after an accident to ensure maximum protection.

3. Avoid Used Car Seats

• Second-hand car seats may be compromised from previous accidents or may not meet current safety standards. Always buy new, certified car seats.

4. Ensure Proper Car Seat Installation

• 73% of car seats are not installed correctly, reducing their effectiveness (NHTSA, 2022).
• Parents can get car seat installation checked for free at local fire departments, police stations, or certified safety inspection sites.

5. Teach Kids Road Safety Early

• Educate children about pedestrian safety, including looking both ways before crossing the street and staying off the road while playing.
• Encourage the use of bike lanes and sidewalks whenever possible.

Conclusion

The safety of our children in vehicles is non-negotiable. By following car seat guidelines, always securing children properly, and staying vigilant, parents can prevent tragic accidents.

No matter how inconvenient it may seem, taking an extra moment to ensure your child is properly restrained can save their life.

For more information, visit:

• NHTSA Car Seat Safety
• CDC Child Passenger Safety
• Safe Kids Worldwide