Driving a car is inherently risky. No matter how careful we are, there’s always the possibility of an accident. That’s why the state of Ohio requires children under eight to use proper car seats or booster seats.
According to Forbes, “More than 500 children a day — or about 183,000 a year — get injured in car crashes in the United States, according to recent federal data, but when installed correctly, car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants and by 54% for toddlers.”
Proper car seat installation and usage is important to protect your child’s safety. If you’re ever in an accident, it can help avoid serious injury. Furthermore, if you need to pursue compensation through insurance or a lawsuit, the opposing party will not be able to attack your safety precautions and potentially lower the award.
Car seat requirements
If your child is under eight years old, they need to be in a car seat or booster seat. Children under four years old or 40 pounds needs to use a federally-approved child safety seat. Children under eight—unless or until they are four feet, nine inches tall—need to use a booster seat. Booster seats help reposition the seatbelt. This helps avoid injury in the event of a collision. Between ages eight to 15, they are required to use either a child safety seat or seatbelt.
If you’re pulled over and have failed to meet these requirements, you may receive a $25 to $75 ticket.
Car seat resources
Car seats can be expensive. Since they “expire” after a certain amount of time, or once they’re involved in a collision, you might need to purchase more than one. It can also be difficult to install the seats properly. There are resources available to help.
The state of Ohio offers the “Ohio Buckles Buckeyes” program, which provides car seats to low income families. Parents may attend a safety class, then receive a federally-approved car seat for their children. The education is designed to teach parents about car seat installation and safety, so children are less likely to suffer serious injury in a collision.
If you need help installing your car seat, many firehouses will assist you, free of charge. Call your municipal offices to find out where to get help in your area. If you’re ever in a collision, you and your child will be more likely to escape without serious injury.
Discuss your car accident case with an Ohio personal injury lawyer
When your child is injured in a car accident, you deserve compensation for their injuries and other associated costs. If a negligent driver is at fault, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call the Law Offices of Tim Misny today at 877-614-9524 for a consultation, and we’ll work to get what you deserve.
