The safety of our children is one of the most important things for parents all across the country and the world. They want to make sure they are safe and protected, and one of the most dangerous places for them to be is in the car. Even though we use them every day, cars are dangerous, and the very act of being on the road can be hazardous and even fatal. Even if mom and dad are responsible drivers with a clean record, others may not be, and it is a constant threat that can terrify parents.
However, that is why there are car seats, infants, toddlers, and small children are in car seats when they are in the vehicle, and their sole purpose is to make sure children are protected. They are tested rigorously to make sure they will protect a child in a crash, and parents can spend days researching the right car seat for them. Car seats are also expensive, and something that parents do not want to have to replace all the time, but they are constantly told that if the car is in an accident all car seats have to be replaced.
This can be frustrating, especially for parents who have more than one car seat they now need to replace, and learning about why they should be replaced can help mom and dad realize just how important it is.
What Happens To The Car Seat?
Even though the car seat was in the car during the accident, it can still sustain damage. According to The Car Seat Lady, car accidents can weaken the plastic in the car seat, and while it may seem fine, it may not protect the child should it be in another accident. One of the problems is that damage cannot always be seen with the eye, so it is almost impossible to know for sure, and experts have always said that it is better to be safe than sorry about car seat safety.
Minor Vs. Major
There is a difference between a major and minor car accident, and with major accidents, all car seats need to be replaced, but minor accidents can be a grey area. It is always best to read the manual and go with what the manufacturer says, and if you are unsure, then give them a call. However, some car seats are fine to use if the accident is considered “minor,” but what makes an accident minor?
According to ICBC, there are a lot of criteria that have to be met to determine if the accident is minor. The car has to be able to drive away from the crash site, the car door closest to the car seat cannot sustain any damage, there are no injuries, airbags were not deployed and there is no visible damage to the car seat. If the accident fills every criterion, that would be considered a “minor accident.”
Insurance Help
When faced with having to replace all the car seats you have, the idea of the cost can be overwhelming. According to Very Well Family, it is important to check with your insurance provider, as they may cover the cost of any car seats that need to be replaced. In California, insurance companies are required by law to replace car seats after a crash, so always check with your local laws and insurance companies if you need new car seats.
Sources: The Car Seat Lady, ICBC, Very Well Family