Posted in Car Accident,Tennessee Accident Law on June 9, 2017
Children are extremely vulnerable during car accidents. Motor vehicle crashes are the second-leading cause of death for children between the ages of 4 and 10, and around one-third of children who die in car crashes aren’t properly restrained.
To protect your children in the event of a collision, always follow these tips:
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to keep kids safe in cars. Make sure you have the correct restraints for your children at all stages of their growth and development. That means having rear-facing car seats for infants up to 2 years old, forward-facing car seats for kids 2 to 5 years old, booster seats for kids 5 and older, and standard seat belts for kids after they outgrow booster seats.
The safest place for all kids under the age of 12 is the back seat—even after they’ve outgrown booster seats. Children are at risk of suffering serious injuries when front airbags deploy during collisions. In addition, children have different bone structures, making them more prone to injuries when sitting in front seats due to impact zones and seat belt configurations.
Another risk factor for everyone in your vehicle during a crash, including children, is loose objects. Even relatively low-speed collisions can cause items to go airborne, putting everyone in their path at risk. Children can suffer serious and even life-threatening injuries when they’re struck by these items, as they can move at high speeds and with tremendous amounts of force.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that restraints saved the lives of 252 children 4 years old or younger in 2014, and age-appropriate car seats can reduce the risk of death during accidents for kids in that age group by anywhere from 54 percent to 71 percent.
The Nashville car accident lawyers at Matt Hardin Law know that children are among the most vulnerable passengers during crashes. That’s why it’s so important to follow all safety measures to protect them. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s car seat, contact the manufacturer, attend a car seat safety event, or call a child passenger safety technician to learn more about proper installation and when it’s time to replace the car seat.
If you or your child were injured in a car accident in the mid-state area, you may be eligible to pursue a claim for compensation. To find out how we can assist you, dial (615) 200-1111 or complete a free online form. We’ll do everything we can to help you get money for your or your child’s medical bills and pain and suffering. Call today.
