As a parent, keeping your child safe and out of harm's way is crucial, especially when buckling them up in your vehicle; you want to make sure they are safe and properly secure while driving to your destination. When choosing the right seat for your child, there is no "one size fits all approach" because children grow at different rates. However, it is primarily dependent on several different factors.
Understanding the Illinois Child Restraint Laws
When it comes to child passenger safety, Illinois has some of the strictest laws in the country. According to the Illinois Child Passenger Protection Act, all children under eight years old must be properly secured in an appropriate child safety restraint system while riding in a motor vehicle. This law is put in place to ensure the safety of our youngest passengers, and parents and caregivers must comply with these requirements. In this blog, we will provide an overview of Illinois' child passenger safety laws, as well as tips for choosing the right car seat for your child.
Things to Consider When Buying a Car Seat for Your Child
Choosing the right car seat for your child can be a daunting task, but it is important to make sure that you select an appropriate seat for your child's age, weight, and height. You should also consider the type of vehicle you will be using the seat in, as well as your budget.
There are many different types of car seats on the market, so it is essential to do your research before purchasing. Once you have selected the right seat for your child, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and install the seat properly.
The National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) provides these simple recommendations when choosing the right car seat for your child.
For newborns to 12 months of age, they should be properly secured in a rear-facing car seat.
Young children from 1 to 7 years of age should be fastened in a forward-facing car seat. However, this is entirely dependent on their weight and height.
For young children 4 to 12 years of age, you may want to choose a booster seat until they are big enough to fit in a seatbelt properly.
Children who are 8 years or older must always wear a seat belt that is secured and fastened properly.
Your child's safety can be impacted if their car seat is not installed properly. Before installing your car seat, it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with vehicle safety and car seat parts. The NHTSA also provides essential car seat installation tips to help you understand car seat installation.
Contact Chicago Car Accident Attorneys
When choosing an appropriate car seat for your child, this can greatly decrease the chances of a severe injury for your child if involved in a crash. However, if you or a loved one was involved in an unexpected accident, we can help. McNabola & Associates, LLC has over 60 years of collective legal experience fighting for the rights of car accident victims. Our dedicated team of attorneys is here to help you get the results you deserve.
If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident. Contact us today at (312) 888-8700 to schedule a free case consultation.