In a study released Thursday, researchers found that most parents are not using child safety seats correctly, report news sources .
The study, conducted by non-profit group Safe Kids USA, found that only 30% of caregivers are using the tether straps designed to keep the top of the seat and children’s heads secured in the event of a crash. The study also found that many people responsible for children in vehicles are not using the safest seat for the child’s age.
Researchers reviewed 79,000 car seat checklists that Safe Kids collected at voluntary inspection events held in 2009 and 2010 in what is believed to be the largest study ever done of child safety seats. The non-profit suggests that the rate for proper use of child safety seats is even lower than what is stated in the report because the safety checkup events are voluntary, therefore supporting the idea that more education regarding proper safety seat use is needed.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children between the ages of 3 and 14.
As an Orangeburg car accident lawyer , child safety is something that I am very conscious of; I encourage parents and caregivers to get trained in the best ways to use a child safety seat. Because of my experience as an Orangeburg auto accident attorney, I am very aware of the split-second difference between everything seeming fine and a terrible vehicle crash. I urge motorists to always practice safe driving habits.