If you are a parent, you know the importance of keeping your children safe – especially when riding in a car. In Georgia, children eight years old and under must ride in an approved car seat that is suitable for their height and weight. They must also ride in the backseat, unless the backseat is occupied and then they can ride in the front seat so long as they are in an approved car seat. And any child over the age of 8 must wear a seatbelt.
But there are literally hundreds of different types of car seats on the market these days, and you may not be sure which one is right for your child. Here are a few simple tips for selecting a car seat to help keep you child safe.
All children two years of age or younger should ride in a rear-facing car seat. The rear-facing position is best because your child will be less likely to be injured if you are in a car accident. However, there are a number of different rear-facing car seats:
Infant Car Seats: The infant car seat or bucket seat is the most common “first” car seat. It is referred to as a bucket seat because it also doubles as a child carrier that your child can remain in when taking him or her in and out of your car. These car seats typically have a five point safety harness system that will firmly secure your child in the seat. However, you must be mindful of the specific height and weight limits of the bucket seat you purchase for your child.
Convertible Car Seats: Once your child reaches the height/weight limits of their bucket seat, you should purchase a convertible seat. Like the bucket seat, convertible seats also have a five point safety harness system. However, a convertible car seat is not portable. Nevertheless, you can place a convertible car seat rear-facing as well as forward-facing to accommodate your child as they grow older. Convertible seats also have specific height and weight limits that you must be cognizant of.
3-In-1 Car Seat: A 3-in-1 car seat is essentially a convertible car seat that doubles as a booster seat. These types of car seats are large and must be installed in your vehicle properly.
Once your child is over the age of two years old, they can begin riding in a convertible or 3-in-1 car seat that is forward-facing. However, they must still ride in the backseat unless this is not possible. Children should be secured in a convertible or 3-in-1 car seat until they are five years old or reach a height of 4 feet 9 inches.
Similarly, children ages five to eight years old should ride in a booster seat to help keep them safe unless they are taller than 4 feet 9 inches.
Following these simple car seat guidelines will go a long way in protecting your child in the unfortunate event that you are in a car accident.
If you or your child has been injured in a car accident, you need a qualified personal injury attorney to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Murphy & Garner, LLC are dedicated to you and your case. Call us today for a free consultation at 678-563-1584.
