Why Car Seat Safety Matters
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury and death for children. Using the right car seat — and using it correctly — dramatically reduces that risk. The good news is that with a few key steps, you can keep your baby safe on every ride.
Rear-Facing Is Safest
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children ride in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible — until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat's manufacturer. For most children, this means riding rear-facing until at least age 2, and often beyond.
GOOD TO KNOW
Rear-facing protects your baby's head, neck, and spine in a crash. The seat absorbs the force — not your baby's body.
Installation: Get It Right
- Use either the seat belt or the lower anchors (LATCH) — not both, unless the manufacturer says so
- The seat should not move more than 1 inch side to side or front to back at the belt path
- Check the recline angle — most infant seats have an indicator
- Read both your car seat manual and your vehicle manual
Harness Fit
- The harness straps should be at or below your baby's shoulders (for rear-facing)
- The chest clip should be at armpit level
- You should not be able to pinch any slack in the harness strap at the shoulder (the "pinch test")
- Straps should lie flat with no twists
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Loose installation: The seat moves more than 1 inch
- Loose harness: You can pinch slack at the shoulder
- Chest clip too low: It should be at armpit level, not on the stomach
- Bulky clothing: Never put your baby in a car seat wearing a winter coat — dress them in thin layers and use a blanket over the harness
- Aftermarket products: Avoid head supports, strap covers, or toys that didn't come with the seat — they haven't been crash-tested with your seat
What You Can Do
- Install your car seat before your baby is born
- Get your installation checked — many fire stations and Safe Kids coalitions offer free checks
- Register your car seat with the manufacturer so you're notified of recalls
- Never use a car seat that has been in a crash, is expired, or is missing parts
