Car Seat Safety
Under most circumstances, where could a baby be more secure than in a parent's arms? But in a moving vehicle, a parent’s arms or a lap become a dangerous place. Because of this danger, child car seats are required by law in every state and must be installed in the rear passenger seat. In a collision, these seats support babies' backs, necks and heads. Unfortunately, installation of the car seat into the rear passenger area of the car can be difficult.
Improperly installed infant car seats or seats improperly used dramatically reduces the effectiveness in a collision. By giving careful thought when selecting a seat and paying close attention each time you use it, you can help ensure a safe ride for your baby and older children.
Older preschoolers also need car seats that should be selected based on the weight and size of the child. As children mature they ”graduate” to seat belts and, for maximum safety, should sit in the rear passenger seat until they become teenagers.
Effective December 1, 2006 NC law requires all passengers in the rear seat to be wearing a seat belt. This change will help preschoolers see adults and older children belted and perhaps the younger ones will fuss less about wearing seat belts!