In today’s highly mobile society, children travel more than ever. Sadly, this mobility comes at a staggering price. In 2007, more than 1,600 kids died and over 200,000 were injured in car crashes – enough to rank motor vehicle crashes as a leading cause of death for children in the U.S.
Tragically, many of these deaths could have been prevented. Research shows that seat belts and safety seats – when properly used – are the most effective tools in preventing injuries and deaths in vehicle crashes.
When:
- Safety belts fits properly
- Shoulder belt across collar bone & chest.
- Lap belt fits across hips/thighs, not abdomen.
- Knees bend naturally over edge of seat while sitting erect, with back flat against seat back.
Why:
- Motor-vehicle crashes are the No. 1 killer of children – including teenagers!
- Crashes killed more than 1,600 kids last year alone, ranking far ahead of all other types of unintentional injuries and claiming more lives than any childhood disease.
- Many of these deaths could have been prevented if only the children had children had been properly buckled up.
- Children under 13 years of age should be properly restrained in the back seat. Teenagers should wear lap and shoulder belts in every seating position in a motor vehicle.
Be Sure:
- ALWAYS require seat belt use for all passengers.
- Make sure the lap belt fits low and tight across the lap/upper thigh area – NOT the abdomen!
- Shoulder belt should cross the chest and shoulder.
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