Vehicle safety is important and it starts at birth. The month of September has two national observances to increase awareness about vehicle safety for children, National Seat Check Saturday (September 29, 2018) and Child Passenger Safety Week (September 23-29, 2018). To help you be confident you are doing the best for the children who may ride in your vehicle, here are some quick tips.

Get Your Car Seat Checked
Are you sure that your child’s car seat is correctly installed? One mistake can lead to dire consequences and decrease safety. Fortunately, most local police departments have representatives available to take a look at your seat and offer any adjustments. Call your police department to set an appointment before your child gets in the seat.

Know Car Seat Laws and Recommendations
In Illinois, a new law recently passed for children under the age of two to remain in a rear-facing car seat. While this was considered the safest and best practice from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Illinois never made it a law. However, now your child must remain rear-facing until the age of two.

You can check out safety recommendations for children’s car seats and booster seats from the American Academy of Pediatrics here. If you have any questions at all, talk to your child’s pediatrician or a car seat expert.

Keep Rules Consistent
Your children are not just in the car with you. They may ride along with friends or family members, and you need to be sure they are safe during those trips as well. Be sure any other family member who may drive your child around (grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) has a car seat appropriate for your child and knows that it is mandatory for your children to use it during car trips.

Plan for Emergencies
Every time you get in the car with your children, you are likely to have a safe trip. However, it is wise to have a plan for emergencies. Pack an emergency bag for your car and be sure to include items for your children as well. You should also have your insurance information handy, as well as any medical conditions first responders should be aware of.

Even the best planners and safest drivers can be in a car accident. If you have been injured in a vehicle crash, give the team at O’Brien Law a call. We want to hear more about your situation and can help you determine if you are owed any compensation. Stay safe out there!