Every parent, especially a newone, wants to do all possible things to keep their child safe traveling in a car. A lack of safety can lead the child to lose their life. According to CDC, car accidents are the USA’s leading cause of child death. That is why it is essential to take every precaution possible. I will share some car safety tips for new parents in this blog.
Let me discuss a brief of safety tips. For instance, you should select and use the right car seat for your child. Also, proper installation and position of baby car seats are essential. You should follow the safety laws for child passengers. Besides, maintain the speed properly and ensure the baby is comfortable and safe at that speed. You may keep some first aid kits for any emergencies.
Reading this whole blog may provide you with more essential safety tips. So, I suggest you stay with me till the end.
Understanding Child Passenger Safety Laws
You should understand child passenger safety laws. These laws are legislated to help protect children in the event of a car accident. However, these laws vary by state, yet some are consistent nationwide. According to these laws, a child should generally be in a car seat or booster seat until a certain age and/or weight before they can only transition to a seatbelt.
Remember that following the laws is the minimum standard of safety for children. Some states may have stricter laws, and others may have more lenient standards.
According to SafeRide4Kids, Some examples of child passenger safety laws in different states are:
- In Iowa, children under 6 must be secured in a child safety seat.
- In Georgia, children aged up to 8 and below 4’9″ must be properly secured in a child safety restraint meeting federal motor safety standard 213.
- In Washington, D.C., children under 16 must be secured in an approved child safety restraint system.
- In New York, children must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system until their 8th birthday.
- In North Carolina, children under age 16 must be properly restrained in an age, weight, and height-appropriate restraint.
Penalties for violating child passenger safety laws can be severe. Fines, points on your driver’s license, and even court appearances can result from breaking these laws. In addition to legal penalties, failure to properly restrain a child in the car can be dangerous and even deadly.
You can find more information about child passenger safety laws in your state by checking your state’s Department of Transportation website.
Choosing the Right Car Seat
A suitable car seat ensures the best safety while the child remains in the car. As a new parent, you must provide a car seat ideal for your infant or toddler. Thus, you can find versatile types of car seats in the market. Before that, let me share something more.
You should start by considering your child’s age and weight. You can find car seats designed for infants, toddlers, and older children. So, choose an appropriate one for your child’s age and size.
I suggest you check the NHTSA’s website for children’s car seat recommendations. They have comprehensive guidelines and ratings for car seats. So, check your car seat for any recalls and its expiration date. Usually, car seats have an expiration date of around six years.
Types of Car Seats
You can find three common types of car seats: rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seats.
Rear-Facing vs. Forward-Facing Car Seats
Choosing car seats between these two is up to your child’s age, weight, and height. Typically, children under two sit in a rear-facing car seat.
Rear-facing car seats are the most secure option for infants and young children. They protect the child’s head, neck, and spine from the impact of an accident. Additionally, children should remain in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the height or weight limit set by the manufacturer.
Transit the child to a forward-facing car seat with a harness when it outgrows the manufacturer’s weight or height limit for a rear-facing car seat. These car seats protect children in car crash events by distributing the impact force through a wider body area.
Then again, you should also consider the manufacturer’s height and weight recommendations for these forward-facing car seats. Generally, children should stay in these seats with a harness until they outgrow it. It is typically around age 4.
The harness should be snug against the child’s body. Besides, the car seat should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Booster Seats
Booster seats are designed for children who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats. But they are not yet tall enough to safely use the vehicle’s seatbelt.
Children who are 4-8 years old, 40-80 pounds, and under 4’9″ tall usually need a booster seat. These seats help position the vehicle’s seatbelt to let it fit properly across the child’s body. Also, the seatbelt fits appropriately and protects the child adequately in case of an accident.
The lap belt should rest over the child’s hips. Simultaneously, the shoulder belt should be snug across the chest and shoulder without touching the neck.
There are 2 types of booster seats:
- High-back booster seats: They provide head and neck support to a child who otherwise would not have any. They also offer additional protection for side-impact crashes.
- Backless booster seats: They do not have a back and rely on the vehicle’s seat for head support.
Some car seats are designed specifically for children with special needs. They can provide additional support or adaptations for children with mobility or developmental challenges. You may consult a car seat professional or a pediatrician for recommendations tailored to your child’s needs.
Follow the exact instructions for rear-facing and forward-facing car seats regarding booster seats. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and using the booster seat.
You should not forget your child’s weight, height, and age. Again, ensure that the child’s legs can bend over the seat cushion’s front edge while their back remains against the seat back.
Keep Car Seat Accessories Equipped
You can keep your child safe and comfortable during every car ride by investing in essential equipment items. I suggest you register your car seats and sign up for recall notices.
Seat Covers: Keep Your Car Seat Clean and Looking New
Seat covers are removable and have washable protectors. They fit over the car seat’s padding and cushions. Thus, they keep car seats clean and look new by protecting the fabric from spills, stains, and dirt.
Seat covers are handy for families with young children who may have accidents or spills while in the car. You can find various seat covers online or from specialized car seat retailers.
Clips and Organizers: Store Essentials Within Easy Reach
Car seat organizers are helpful accessories that attach to the car seat or head rest. They provide easy access to essentials like toys, snacks, and sippy cups for your child.
Organizers can keep things tidy and prevent distractions while driving. I suggest you have compatible organizers for your car seat and car model to ensure a secure fit.
Emergency Kits: Prepare for Unexpected Situations
A car emergency kit is a set of essential items for unexpected situations. These situations include a flat tire, a breakdown, or an accident. Moreover, a well-stocked emergency kit should include a flashlight, first aid supplies, a blanket, water, and non-perishable food items.
You should always keep the emergency kit in good condition and within the expiry date. For better help, you can purchase pre-made emergency kits or create your own by gathering the necessary supplies.
Also, keep the kit within easy reach in your car, preferably in the trunk or a designated storage area.
Essential Car Safety Tips for New Parents
Follow these instructions to ensure your child’s safety while you are driving the car:
Seat Belts and Airbags
Proper Seat Belt Usage
Ensure that you and all passengers, including children, are wearing seat belts correctly. The shoulder belt should be positioned across your chest. Also, the lap belt should be worn low and snug across your hips. (Source)
Airbags
Understand the function and limitations of airbags in your vehicle. Airbags provide additional protection in a collision. But you should not rely upon them as the sole means of safety.
Speed and Distance
Safe Driving Speed
Obey the set speed limits and adjust your speed according to weather conditions and visibility. Driving too fast increases the risk of accidents. Besides, it can reduce your ability to react in time.
Safe Following Distance
Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle before you to allow for braking and maneuvering room. A general rule is to leave at least one car length for every 10 miles per hour of speed. (Source)
Avoiding Distractions
Cell Phone Usage
Avoid using your cell phone (texting, browsing, calling) while driving. It can lead to distracted driving. Additionally, pull over to a safe location to make or receive calls.
Other Distractions
Keep your focus on the road by avoiding activities that take your attention away from driving. These activities can be eating, drinking, or adjusting to the radio.
Preventing and Addressing Car Sickness
Avoid Sudden Movements
Smooth acceleration and deceleration can help prevent car sickness. Avoid making sharp turns or sudden stops.
Fresh Air
Ensure that your vehicle has proper ventilation. It will provide fresh air and reduce the risk of car sickness.
Temperature Control
Infants are sensitive to heat and cold. So, always ensure that the temperature in the car is comfortable for them.
Entertainment
Bring plenty of toys, books, and games to entertain your child during the car ride. Consider bringing a portable DVD player or tablet for longer car rides.
Snacks and Drinks
Pack plenty of healthy snacks and drinks, like water bottles and small bags of fruit. Avoid sugary snacks that may result in car sickness.
Rest Stops
Plan regular breaks during long drives. It will allow passengers to stretch and get some fresh air. You may also plan for frequent diaper changes and feeding breaks when traveling with an infant. So, pack a diaper bag with all the necessary supplies, including diapers, wipes, and clothes.
Emergency & Disaster Preparedness Tips
In this section, I will discuss some essential emergency and disaster preparedness tips for the further safety of your babies.
Car Emergency Preparedness Kit
A car emergency preparedness kit can help you handle unexpected roadside emergencies safely. According to iDriveSafely, some essential items to include in your kit are:
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- A first-aid kit
- Water and non-perishable food
- A blanket
- A whistle
- A basic toolkit
Home Emergency Preparedness
Having a plan in place for emergencies like natural disasters is crucial. This plan should include an evacuation route, a meeting place, and emergency contact information for all family members.
Well-stocked emergency kits in your home, cars, and businesses can ensure your and your loved ones’ safety. According to SafetyKitsPlus, these kits should include essential supplies like:
- Water
- Food
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- First aid supplies
- Communication tools
Disaster Preparedness Tips
You should stay calm and focused during an emergency. If you are ordered to evacuate, do so. If you are not evacuating, use your time wisely to prepare. (Source)
Secure outdoor items to prevent damage during bad weather. These items can be:
- Patio umbrellas
- Deck furniture
- Grills
- Lawn equipment
- Bikes
- Toys
You should communicate your situation to someone outside the affected area. Also, stay informed about warning signs and alert signals for your site. You can tune into local television, radio stations, or community alert systems for this.
Vehicle Safety Features for You and Your Children
Modern vehicles offer various safety features as technology has evolved in that way. According to Consumer Reports, Budget Direct, and Forbes, some standard vehicle safety features are:
Seatbelts
Seatbelts are a fundamental safety feature to restrain occupants during a collision. They can reduce the risk of injury or death.
Airbags
Airbags deploy in a collision to provide additional protection to passengers. They can be frontal, side, or side curtain airbags. Also, their effectiveness can vary depending on the type and placement.
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
ABS helps maintain steering control during hard braking by preventing the wheels from locking up. It is beneficial on slippery surfaces. Additionally, it can help drivers maintain control of their vehicles.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
ESC helps maintain vehicle stability by applying the brakes to individual wheels as needed. It can prevent skidding or spinning and help drivers maintain control and avoid accidents.
Lane-keeping Assist and Cruise Control
Lane-keeping assist technologies help drivers stay within their lane. Active cruise control adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car in front. It can reduce the risk of accidents due to inattention, fatigue, alcohol, or speeding.
Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking
These features use sensors to detect potential collisions. They can apply the brakes automatically if you do not respond in time. Through this, you can prevent or mitigate the severity of a crash.
Night Vision Features
Some vehicles come equipped with night vision features. They can detect pedestrians and bicycles on dark streets as additional visibility for drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question-1: When should a child switch from a rear-facing to a forward-facing car seat?
Answer: A kid should stay ina rear-facing car seat until it reaches the height or weight limit the car seat’s manufacturer allows. After outgrowing, you can switch the child to a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether.
Question-2: How can I teach my child about car safety?
Answer: You can start by setting a good example to teach your child about car safety. Discuss the importance of car safety with your child and practice proper car seat usage. Also, encourage your child to be respectful and calm during car rides.
Question-3: When should a child use a booster seat?
Answer: Children should use a booster seat when they outgrow their forward-facing car seats.But they should not yet be big enough to use a seatbelt alone. Typically, children of 4-8 years, weighing 40-80 pounds and under 4’9″ tall should use a booster seat.
Question-4: How should I secure my child when using a car seat?
Answer: Always ensure your child is securely fastened in the car seat. Also, install the seat correctly and ensure the harness straps are snug. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to secure your child in the car seat.
Final Words
Car safety is a top priority for new parents. It ensures the well-being of their little ones during travel. Thus, the suggestions I have shared in this article will help any parent to have a happy journey. Ensure you follow local safety laws for driving a car with children.
So, I hope these car safety tips for new parents will be helpful in further traveling.
Have a memorable and safe journey with your kids!
