In the News
New research found that more than half of children injured in car crashes were either unrestrained or using a restraint that did not fit their age, height or weight, increasing their risk of serious injury. Although not every crash can be prevented, properly restraining children gives them the best chance of survival and lowers the risk of severe injury. So why, despite clear guidance and evidence, are so many children still improperly restrained? “As children get older, they will eventually outgrow their seats, and a new one will be needed,” said Jacob Snow, M.D., a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Pediatrix® Emergency Medicine of Nevada. “This can be expensive, so some parents may be tempted to accelerate their child from a car seat or booster to the vehicle’s seatbelt prematurely.” Dr. Snow noted that children may also want to stop using a car seat or booster to imitate an older sibling or friend whose age, height or weight differs from their own. “Last, parents are often busy, can be distracted and may simply overlook this essential step in driving,” said Dr. Snow.
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