Our primary parental concern is keeping our children safe from harm while driving them on the road. Accidents can result in severe injuries to children seated in booster seats, mainly due to improper use, installation, or choice of these protective seats.
If your child has been hurt in an accident, you must contact a car wreck attorney immediately. Make sure you hire reputed lawyers like Vaughn Wamsley. He is a top Indianapolis car wreck attorney who can efficiently help to protect your family’s rights.
Why Booster Seats Matter
Thousands of children across the United States experience serious injuries because of motor vehicle accidents. Proper booster seat setup reduces severe injuries by 45% compared to making the kids wear seat belts independently. You must ensure child booster seat safety in Indianapolis, where busy roads and unpredictable drivers pose accident risks.
Indiana’s Booster Seat Laws
The state of Indiana mandates that all children below eight years old need to ride in federally certified protective child restraint systems that involve booster seats. Safety professionals advise children to continue using boosters until they grow to 4’9″ in height, usually between ages 8 and 12.
Many small kids in Indiana have suffered injuries after the car crash because their parents failed to comply with seat belt laws. They thought their child was big enough for a seat belt, but now they know better – Booster seats save lives.
Choosing the Right Booster Seat
Booster seats are available with various levels of quality.
Here is what you need to consider while buying one:
- High-back vs. backless: High-back booster seats provide superior protection for head accidents and side collisions.
- Proper fit: A properly fitted seat belt needs to cover the chest and the hips instead of the neck or abdomen.
- Installation: All users must read and follow the manufacturer’s recommended steps when installing their seat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some parents make a few mistakes while using boosters.
Avoid these mistakes:
- Skipping the harness: All children should use a 5-point-harness booster seat for better protection from impacts.
- Using a damaged seat: Before using a used or secondhand booster seat, learn about the crash history and recall records.
- Ignoring height guidelines: The age requirement by itself does not guarantee your child will fit properly in a seat belt. Do a trial check of the booster seat with your child before buying.
What to Do After an Accident
Seek immediate healthcare treatment for your injured child after an accident, even if their injuries appear to be mild. A specialist attorney can help you check and advise you on your legal standing, so consult with one immediately. Professional legal representation will strengthen child injury claim cases because insurance companies attempt to minimize compensation amounts.
Final Thoughts
Boosters are straightforward safety tools that protect kids riding on Indianapolis streets. Your efforts to comply with Indiana’s laws and safety guidelines will reduce dangers and safeguard your children. Being extra cautious about car safety will protect you from experiencing regretful situations. Contact an attorney if you need assistance after an accident or have questions about booster seat safety. Contact a trusted Indianapolis attorney for your case today.
