Child Passenger Safety Week highlights widespread car seat misuse

National Child Passenger Safety Week, running through September 26, has prompted various state agencies and safety organizations to issue warnings regarding the improper use of child restraints.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and AAA indicate significant trends in misuse. AAA reports that many children transition from booster seats to adult seat belts before they are physically ready, noting that 86.5% of children evaluated by technicians had already moved to adult belts prematurely. In North Dakota, officials reported that up to 75% of checked car seats were used incorrectly, citing issues with harnesses, tether straps, and lower anchors.

In response, agencies in Texas, California, Delaware, and California are promoting safety education and free car seat checkup events. These initiatives aim to ensure caregivers understand proper installation, height and weight limits, and the importance of keeping children in rear-facing or booster seats for as long as manufacturer guidelines allow. Experts emphasize that proper restraint can significantly reduce the risk of fatal injuries in motor vehicle crashes.