Car crashes are a leading cause of death for children. On average, two children under 13 were killed:
710 children (under 13) were killed in passenger vehicles in 2021, and more than 100,000 were injured.
In 2021, more than a third (36%) of children (under 13) who died while riding in passenger vehicles were unrestrained.
3 Important Tips
- Find the right car seat (for your child, based on their age and size). Select a car seat based on your child’s age and size, then choose a seat that fits in your vehicle, and use it every time. (Link on our website homepage to this information) • Always refer to your specific car seat manufacturer’s instructions (check height and weight limits) and read the vehicle owner’s manual on how to install the car seat using the seat belt or lower anchors and a tether, if available. To maximize safety, keep your child in the car seat for as long as possible, as long as the child fits within the manufacturer’s height and weight requirements. Keep your child in the back seat at least through age 12.
- Install your car seat correctly. Before you install your car seat, make sure you’re familiar with vehicle and car seat parts used in the installation process and these important installation safety tips. Every car seat needs to be installed using either the lower anchors or a seat belt to secure it in place, never both. If you choose to use a seat belt to install your car seat, pay close attention to how to “lock” your seat belt according to the vehicle’s owner manual. With a forward-facing car seat, use a tether if one is available. Before installing your car seat make sure you understand the function and location of the vehicle and car seat parts that are used in installation.
- Register your car seat and sign up for recalls Registering your seat makes sense: It gives the manufacturer the ability to contact you about recalls and safety notices. It’s also easy: Just send in the card that came with your car seat or fill out a simple form on the manufacturer’s website.