The transition into parenthood is life changing. We see that little bundle of joy and realize that there is little we wouldn’t do to keep them safe. These young humans depend on us for everything — food, love, safety.
Yet keeping them safe is no easy feat. It seems dangers are present everywhere we look. Want to go for a walk? Better make sure that stroller is in good working order and that you have the right gear for sun protection. Thinking of visiting grandparents? Check that they have the right crib or pack and play so the child is not at risk for suffocation while they sleep. Not to mention the need for electrical outlet protectors and gates when the child starts moving.
If you have had any of these concerns, you are not alone. Although warranted, medical professionals point out that the most dangerous activity for children ages three to fourteen is travel. Getting into a vehicle puts children at the highest risk of unintentional injury-related death compared to any other activity.
There are steps we can take to reduce this risk. Three of the most effective include:
- Use the right car seat. Five-point harness, high back booster, booster … there are a lot of different styles of car seats not to mention the many brands and designs. Some of the differences are aesthetic, but others are important. There are federal standards to help guide parents to choose the right seat for their child, often based on age, weight, and height of the child. Make sure you are using the right one and update the seat as needed.
- Put the car seat in the right part of the car. Car seats are generally not allowed in the front seat. This is because in the event of a crash the impact could trigger an airbag which would hit the car seat and could injure the child. Make sure to put the seat in the right part of the vehicle, generally a back seat.
- Do not leave children unattended. A stop at a store is quicker without the child in tow but leaving them in the car can result in heatstroke and other dangers.
Even when we take these steps accidents can happen. If that accident results in injury to the child, you may be able to hold the other driver accountable for the related expenses through a personal injury claim. An attorney experienced in these types of claims can review the case and provide guidance.