Kids get hurt in accidents too! There are some that will say that because kids are smaller, “softer” and are ensconced in a 5-point harness; they don’t get hurt; but that’s just not true. Kids & teens do however heal quickly.
Even when car seats and seat belts are used properly a child can become injured in an auto accident. They symptoms and treatment are very similar if not the same as in adults. More info about auto accident.
Injury prevention for kids and teen for auto accidents.
The key is that car seats, booster seats and set belt must be used properly to hold the child in the best position to limit injury in an auto accident.
Infant, toddler, young children in car seats
If used properly car seats can protect children from injury if installed and used properly. Dr. Lee and Wendy had all their best fights installing car seats. It is like wrestling and alligator! (FYI Wendy was a certified car seat installer.)
Installation Forward and Rear Facing:
- Choose forward or rear facing by age and weight.
- All Seats should be tight using either latch or seat belt.
- Seat should not be able to move more than 1 inch when shook at the belt path.
Placing Child in the Seat:
- Pulled tight one finger between straps and the child
- No jacket or bulky clothing
Rear Facing Car Seats:
- Straps are at or below shoulders
- The straps should be like a baseball glove and keep the child in place while the seat absorbs impact
Forward Facing Car Seats:
- Straps are at or above shoulders.
- Straps should pull child sitting upright and flat back into the seat.
Children and Teens:
- Seat belts should be low on hips and right over the shoulder to keep body in place during impact.
- This includes booster seat. The entire reason to use a booster seat is to ensure the seat belt in the proper position.
Even when car seats are used properly a child can become injured in an auto accident.
