This week is Child Passenger Safety Week, a nationwide effort led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remind parents and caregivers about the importance of properly securing children in vehicles. At Kushel Law Group, we see firsthand how much of a difference the right car seat or booster seat can make in protecting children during a crash — and we want to help families stay informed.

Why It Matters

• Car crashes remain a leading cause of death for children in the U.S.

• Using the right car seat reduces the risk of injury by 71–82% for children compared to seat belt use alone.

• Even small mistakes in installation or seat choice can dramatically reduce effectiveness.

Common Mistakes Parents Make

1. Graduating too soon – Moving a child to a booster or seat belt before they’re ready.

2. Loose harness straps – Straps should be snug, with the chest clip at armpit level.

3. Wrong installation method – Using both the seat belt and LATCH, or neither correctly.

4. Bulky coats – Winter jackets under the harness create dangerous slack.

What Parents Can Do This Week

✅ Check your car seat – Make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s height, weight, and age.
✅ Register your car seat – So you’ll be notified about recalls (many families miss this step!).
✅ Get a professional inspection – Many local police stations, fire departments, and hospitals offer free car seat checks. You can find a technician near you here.
✅ Talk to your kids – As children get older, remind them why staying buckled properly matters.

Quick Reference by Age/Stage

• Rear-facing: Until at least age 2, or until they outgrow the seat’s limits.

• Forward-facing: Harnessed seat until at least age 5.

• Booster seat: Until seat belts fit properly (usually 8–12 years old, 4’9” tall).

• Seat belt only: When lap and shoulder belts fit snugly across the upper thighs and chest.