Importance of Booster Seats During Car Crash

Booster seats and car seats are mandatory for children of certain ages and sizes. However, one of the biggest misconceptions is that booster seats and car seats are just for really young kids. It is true that car seats are vital for children under the age of four. But many parents feel car seats should be phased out after the age of four. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Not safely securing your child in a car seat or booster, can significantly increase the risk of serious injury in a crash.

As parents, it is our duty to reduce the risk of harm when we drive our kids around. Buckling up is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself and your young passengers. It is important to make sure all children riding in your car are properly secured before every trip.

California Law on Car Seats & Boosters for Young Passengers

According to the California Highway Patrol, below is a summary of current California Law:

• Children under 2 years of age shall ride in a rear-facing car seat unless the child weighs 40 or more pounds OR is 40 or more inches tall. The child shall be secured in a manner that complies with the height and weight limits specified by the manufacturer of the car seat. (California Vehicle Code Section 27360.)
• Children under the age of 8 must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat.
• Children who are 8 years of age OR have reached 4’9” in height may be secured by a booster seat, but at a minimum must be secured by a safety belt. (California Vehicle Code Section 27363.)
• Passengers who are 16 years of age and over are subject to California’s Mandatory Seat Belt law.

California law is silent as to when a child can graduate from a five point harness to a booster seat. In the interest of safety, it is best not to rush a child into a booster seat until they are ready. The bottom line is that each time you move your child to the next seat, you decrease the level of protection in the event of a car accident.

Contact an Experienced Los Angeles Elder Abuse Accident Lawyer

At the Law Offices of Samer Habbas, our Los Angeles car accident attorneys are experienced in handling all types of car accidents, especially those involving younger children. If you were involved in a car accident while your child was in the car, you need aggressive legal representation. An experienced accident lawyer can help you get the full compensation you and your child deserve.

For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our Los Angeles car accident attorneys, please call us at 888.848.5084.