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How to Protect Your Kids from Car Accidents 

car safety for kids

Summer is here and traveling with babies to fun family destinations might be on your list of things to do. Though it’s not a fun thought, every time you take off in your vehicle, your risk of being involved in an accident increases. Protecting your child from a car accident and taking the proper steps if you are involved in one is key to driving more soundly with your little ones. 

Keeping your Kids Safe 

Accidents happen each and every day. Though you never know when they can occur, you can take steps to prepare and have a plan to execute just in case one happens. When you’re on the road and your kiddos are along with you, be sure to keep them safe. 

Beware of hit and runs and keep a close watch on those driving around you just in case they decide to flee after bumping or crashing into your car. 

Keeping your kids safe from injuries incurred in a car accident takes some observing and planning. To keep them safe on all of your trips, follow these ride-along safety tips. 

1. Choose the Back Seat 

The back seat is a safer option for your kiddos when traveling. The front seat airbags could be too harsh on small children and the impact is much more forceful. Always put them in the back seat with their seatbelts fastened to keep them safe. 

2. Buckle Up

For children that are still in a booster seat, make sure to buckle each and every piece. Though you get in a hurry sometimes, never skip a single click. The same goes if your kiddos are out of a booster seat and simply sitting in the back seat. 

3. Fit is Everything 

Before taking off with your child, test your seats and make sure they fit and buckles fasten where they need to. If you suspect that your child’s seat is not working properly, you can head over to your nearest police station or fire station for help. 

What to Do After an Accident 

Taking steps to keep your kids safe is one step in the right direction but, what happens if you are in an accident? Prepare yourself and don’t panic, following these three steps. 

1. Find Safety 

If you’re in an accident, first make sure you and your child are ok. If your car is in driving condition, move it out of a high traffic area and into a parking lot or neighborhood without traffic. 

2. Call an Ambulance 

Once you’re in a spot where you’re out of the way, call an ambulance. Even if everything seems okay, it’s recommended to check your children out. They are more fragile and could react to accidents differently than adults so, be on the safe side. 

3. Look for Signs 

After your child has been checked out, keep a close eye on them. If you notice any strange behaviors or that they have head or back pain, you may need to visit your primary physician. Pay attention to your kids and look for signs and symptoms that seem off. 

What to Do if Your Child is the Victim of a Hit and Run? 

In 2016, the NTSA estimated that there were 737,100 hit-and-run crashes. That number is expected to grow, making it something that you should be mindful of. If you and your child are involved in a hit and run be sure to: 

  • Call the police

  • Gather witnesses

  • Take pictures

  • Go to the hospital 

  • Seek legal advice