Car seat safety facts

Proper use of car safety seats helps keep children safe. But, there are so many different seats are on the market. It's easy to see why many parents find this overwhelming. I'm here to help.

Here is some valuable information to keep in mind as you consider your child's safety in the automobile.

Car seats decrease the risk of a fatal injury by 71% among infants, and 54% among toddlers (2)

Booster seats reduce the risk of nonfatal injuries by 45% among 4-8 year olds when compared to the seat belt alone (3)

Misuse (improper installation and/or improper harnessing/buckling) of a car seat or booster seat increases risk of injury or death. (4)

In Virginia, the minimum age to turn a child forward facing is 2 years old, but it is recommended to keep children rear facing as long as possible, to the maximum limits of their car seat (usually around age 4 or 40-50 pounds depending on the seat). (5)

Children ages 8-12 should remain in a booster seat in the backseat until they are big enough (and mature enough) to use only a seat belt. (6)