Study Shows Toddlers Can Escape from Car Seats

A new study confirms that more than half of children in car seats often unbuckle their seatbelts on their own, putting themselves at risk in a car accident.  More than 40 percent of the children who unbuckled their seatbelts did so while the car was moving, increasing the risk of serious injury by three and a half times.  Seventy-five percent of the children were aged three or younger, while boys were more likely than girls to unbuckle themselves (59 percent vs. 42 percent).

Researchers noted that children were even able to escape from safety seats with five-point harnesses, which latch in three different places.  The report prompts parents and experts to question if passive safety locks on children’s seatbelts can be developed.  Some experts are recommending manufacturers figure out which devices are safest, and even look into safety locks or alarms because of the high occurrence of children getting out of the restraints.

It is essential children are restrained in automobiles since car accidents are the leading cause of death in kids aged 4-8.  In addition, unrestrained children are at increased risk of ejection, being struck by an airbag, and head or neck injury in the event of an accident.

Messa & Associates is experienced in handling cases involving injuries to children as a result of products with manufacturing and design defects.  For more information on car seat safety or if your child has been seriously injured as a result of a defective child restraint seat, please contact us at 1-877-MessaLaw.