Every parent worries about the safety of their children, especially when it comes to the risks associated with car travel. While we may not have control over every aspect of driving, there are steps parents can take to significantly reduce the risks to kids.
Understanding and implementing these measures can provide peace of mind in a world of uncertainties.
What the numbers say
Nationally, more than three children under 14 were killed, and 445 were hurt in crashes every day in 2019. In California, car accidents remain a leading cause of injury and death for children. According to The Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), thousands of California children are in injury-causing crashes per year, while dozens more are killed in fatal car accidents.
These are not just numbers; they represent lives that families can protect with the proper knowledge and tools.
Essential safety precautions
Parents can protect child passengers with several effective strategies:
- Ensure proper use of car seats and booster seats, adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines and California law.
- Always buckle up, no matter how short the trip, and make sure children do the same.
- Ensure kids sit in the back, preferably in the middle seat, as that is generally the safest place to be in a crash.
- Replace car seats after any major accident, even if no damage is visible.
Driving defensively, attentively and responsibly can also reduce the risk of accidents and keep kids safe.
What about teen drivers?
Teenage drivers represent another at-risk group when it comes to road safety. Young drivers are often inexperienced, unfocused and more prone to risk-taking than older motorists. Parents of teenagers must discuss the rules for safe driving with them and help them develop positive habits.
Keeping California kids safe
While we cannot protect our kids from every potential hazard, we can take steps to substantially reduce the risks when driving. Safe driving habits, proper restraints and following traffic laws can go a long way in protecting our most precious cargo.
Unfortunately, accidents can still happen. If your family is suffering in the aftermath of a serious crash, you can contact our firm to discuss your legal options.
