Car Seat Safety Essay

990 Words2 Pages

The main concern of new parents is what car seat is right for their newborn baby. Not only do they have to decide what car seat is right for them they have to make the more important decision which is if they should go rear facing or forward facing. In 2008, research was done to provide the information that kids under the age of two are 75% less likely to become injured in a rear facing car seat. Rear facing and forward facing seats have pros and cons depending on the severity and type of crash it is involve in . A rear facing can protect the child better in side impact crashes. During crashes the babies body is completely harnessed in so there is no dangerous movement made to pull the neck in the wrong way. Rear facing also has cons like their legs can be squished against the seat and cause an uncomfortable car experience. If there is a rear collision they could potentially be ejected from the car. Rear facing also can cause their legs to be squished against the seat.

During side impact crashes, cars can potentially flip. Side impact crashes are said to be the most dangerous type of car crash. The rear facing seat is the best option during this type of crash. If the car flips the sides of the seats are better equipped to harness the child in the seat. The seat is able to make pivoting motions because of the attachments to keep the child in a straight line. Keeping them in a straight line reduces the risk of injuries especially in the spinal cord.By having their back straight it won't bend or come close to snapping. A rear facing car seat protects the child by using a 5- point safety harness which is a system of hooks even used for race car drivers, and flight pilots.This allows the child to stay In the seat without them fal...

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