This month my twins, Gus and Ruby, turned one, and my son Max will turn five this December. As a parent, my number one priority is keeping my children safe. Despite my best efforts, I cannot control every situation my children encounter, but my wife, Stephanie and me do the best we can.
One major risk our children face everyday is transportation. Over 1,000 children under the age of 14 died in motor vehicle accidents in 2012, and almost 200,000 were injured. Cars are dangerous for everyone, but they are especially dangerous for children. Regardless of the risks associated with driving, automobiles help us live our lives, and unfortunately, we need them.
Parents should take the following steps to prevent their children from becoming victims of motor vehicle accidents:
- Make sure your child is buckled up.
- Make sure their car seat/booster seat is age and size appropriate.
- Safely place your child in the back seat.
- Remain focused on the road at all times. If your child, or anything else, is distracting you, pull over until you know you can focus again.
Every state has different laws for children safety in the car, but below is a general seating guide for how to keep your child safe in the car depending on his or her age.
Newborn – Two
From the time a child is born until the age of two, he or she should be riding in a car seat in the back seat of the car, facing the rear. If the child reaches the height and weight limits of their car seat before they turn two, upgrade their seat according to the manual.
Two – Five
Between the ages of two and five, children should remain in an age and weight appropriate car seat, in the back of the car, with the car seat facing forward.
Five and Up
When a child turns five, he or she should advance to a booster seat, until they can safely wear a seat belt.
As soon as your child can safely wear a seat belt (recommended height for seat belts is 57 inches), they have officially outgrown their booster seat. You should keep in mind, that regardless of age, your child is safest in the back seat of the car.
It is important to continue to take all safety precautions when driving whether your children are with you or you are alone. Driving is a serious responsibility, and it is up to you to keep yourself and your family safe on the road.
If you or a loved one was injured in a bad accident, you have to call me right away at 1 (800) 556-4769.
I have the resources and experience necessary to fight for your rights. As an Ohio personal injury lawyer, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For more than 33 years, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus & Cincinnati, Ohio.” You can reach Tim by email at tmisny@misnylaw.com or call at 1 (800) 556-4769.
