5 Tips to Pick the Right Car Seat for Your Child

Children’s car seat requirements keep kids safe and comfortable while on travel.

However, there are many car seat types and features. That’s why choosing the best for your kids can be challenging. Besides, the car seat installation process is not so easy.

So, read through this article for a guide on choosing a car seat for your kids.

1. Remember the Four Stages of Car Seat Safety

You should get the correct car seat type for your child. Remembering the four stages of car seats can help.

• Rear-Facing Car Seats

The California law requires using rear-facing car seats for kids two years old and below. This type is ideal for toddlers until they reach four years old.

Also, you need to have this car seat type right after giving birth. The hospital won’t allow you to leave with your newborn without it in your car.

• Forward-Facing Car Seats

Two-year-old kids and older can switch to using a forward-facing car seat. However, it’s always better and safer to wait for your kids to outgrow the rear-facing type before switching.

• Belt-Positioning Booster Seat

Switch to a belt-positioning booster seat when your child outgrows the forward-facing type. You should preferably make a switch after your child reaches five years old.

• Seatbelt

Finally, you can switch to using the car seatbelt if your kid’s body is ready for it. That’s usually when they are already around eight to twelve years old.

However, keep your child in the backseat until they reach thirteen years old for safety reasons.

2. Choose One with Features You Want or Need

Select a car seat with all the features you want for your child.

Most children’s car seats come with vital parts to serve their purposes, but you can always add more features. However, buying separate accessories is not a good idea because add-ons may not fit well with the car seat.

For example, you want chest clip guards to prevent your child from escaping the harness. It’s better to buy a car seat with these included safety features instead of buying them as separate add ons.

3. Buy from Registered Manufacturer

Always buy a children’s car seat from a registered manufacturer to get quality products that pass federal standards. The law requires that manufacturers produce car seats that can withstand 30 mph collisions and products with enough safety features.

Moreover, check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s list of recalled children’s car seats before buying. It helps ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality and safe product.

On a side note, make sure you register your kid’s car seat after buying using the information in its package. It is to ensure you receive immediate notifications from the manufacturer if your car seat model receives a recall order.

4. Be Wary of Second-Hand Car Seats

It’s better to purchase a brand-new children’s car seat than a second-hand product. However, keep these points in mind if you plan to get a second-hand car seat:

• Be sure that all parts are complete and in good condition.
• Never purchase a second-hand children’s car seat that has gone through a car crash.
• Only purchase from somebody you know and trust.

5. Get a Professional Installation or Check-Up

A professional technician should install the children’s car seat for optimal fitting. Some manufacturers offer free installation if you purchase from them.

However, you can always visit a car seat check station if you install the product on your own. A professional technician will inspect your kid’s car seat and make adjustments if necessary.

Call a Burbank Auto Accident Lawyer if You and Your Child Encounter a Car Crash

Children’s car seat keeps your kids safe, especially in a car crash. However, accidents may still happen and cause injuries to you and your child.

This is when consulting a professional auto accident attorney in Burbank can help. They can help you file a claim against the negligent party and get your rightful compensation.