• Pediatric Care
• Safe Kids

2 Dangerous Car Seat Mistakes and Solutions

By: Renown Wellness Team

February 15, 2023

Car seat mistakes can have very serious consequences. Misuse of a car seat can injure your child, or fail to keep them safe in the event of a crash. A lot goes into finding the right car seat for your child. With so many factors to consider (including age, weight and height of the child, type and brand of a car seat, cost of the car seat, etc.) it can be easy to forget critical factors. Here are two common mistakes that certified technicians often find when speaking with parents.

Mistake #1: Getting a used car seat without knowing its history

Why: A used or secondhand car seat can pose several factors that can compromise its safety in a crash. First, car seats expire six to ten years after their date of manufacture, so refer to the car seat's manual for recommended car seat longevity. The safety mechanisms can be compromised if a car seat has been in a crash. So it's crucial to replace your car seat following a collision.

Solution: Only use a car seat if you know its history. A new car seat is your best bet, as they are up to date on the latest safety guidelines, and safety mechanisms are up to standard. However, if you are considering a used car seat for your child, please ensure the following:

• The car seat has never been in a car crash.
• The car seat isn't expired or outside the manufacturer's recommended longevity.
• It comes with the car seat manual and has all safety labels, including manufacture date, model number, and use instructions and restrictions.
• The car seat or any of its parts have not been recalled.
• The overall state and integrity of the car seat and its parts are undamaged.
• The carseat or any of its parts have not been recalled and are present and in working order.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to check if your child has outgrown their car seat.

Why: As our child grows, we may overlook the recommended age, weight, and height of their current car seat. If a child has outgrown their current car seat by any of the above factors, that child's car seat is no longer safe for use. Using a car seat beyond its recommended age, weight, and height may result in serious injury.

Solution: Check the tag or safety label on the car seat to ensure you are aware of the recommended age, weight, and height for safe use. Set up reminders in your calendar periodically to review the car seat's limitations and your child's age, weight and height. When you check the car seat, it's crucial to ensure the straps are positioned at or above the child's shoulders for forward-facing car seats and at or below for rear-facing car seats.