Anytime that you are taking children around in your motor vehicle, you need to ensure that they have the best possible car seat. Fitting these car seats appropriately can minimize the chance of severe injuries or fatalities in the event of an accident. One of the most common mistakes made by parents as it relates to personal injuries and children in car seats is using a car seat that no longer fits the child or not installing the seat properly.
The car seat is only as safe as possible when it has been installed appropriately in the vehicle and when it is properly sized for the child that its being used for. A new study has identified both bad and good news about how parents used their car seats. Infants and babies should ride in a rear facing car seat until they are at least two years old and the new study found that more parents than ever are following that guideline to help to protect the child’s neck and head.
Putting children in an adult sized seat before they are ready can increase their chances of severe injuries. However, the study found that although experts believed that children should not ride in the front seat of the vehicle until they are at least 13 years old, as many as one-third of 8-12 year olds were allowed to ride in the front seat of the vehicle. If you have been involved in an accident with your children in the car and someone else is responsible due to hazardous or negligent behavior, you need to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney immediately. A dedicated San Francisco personal injury lawyer can tell you more about your rights and what you may be eligible to recover in a California case.