Three Things To Avoid To Keep Kids Safe In A Car

A New Haven auto accident is not the only way that someone can get injured in a vehicle.  In fact, there are quite a few ways that kids can get injured in and around the car.

It is common knowledge that kids should be wearing seatbelts when riding in the car, but there are some things to think about to protect your kids in other ways when they are in the car.  These three suggestions from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) are all critical in keeping your children safe in the car.

1. Never leave your keys in the ignition when there are kids in the car.  Kids are curious and there are very real possibilities that a child would find his/her way to putting the car in drive, reverse, or even neutral and find a way to get the car moving.  Of course, a moving car without you in it can be a very dangerous thing.
2. Don’t allow your children to play with the seatbelt.  Before traveling in a car it is important to explain to your child that the seatbelt is not a toy and if it is used in a way that it was not intended it could have consequences including serious injury or death.
3. Never leave your child alone in the car no matter the weather conditions.  Heatstroke is the leading cause of injury and death in children under 14 in cars and no matter how short the stop is, a car heats up fast and can cause unsafe conditions for your child while he/she is in the car alone.

Following these three guidelines from the NHTSA will help keep your kids happy and safe in the car.  You will rest easy knowing that you’re doing everything you can to keep your children safe in the car.

If you or a loved one are involved in some sort of New Haven auto accident, you may need an attorney to review your case.  Contact our office and we will discuss the details with you.