WICHITA FALLS, Texas (KAUZ) – The Texas Department of Safety (DPS) is recognizing Child Passenger Safety Week by reminding drivers of best child safety seat practices.
Child Passenger Safety Week runs from September 20 through 26. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages one through 13, with more than 1,120 children killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2022 alone.
DPS states that everyone should consider the following tips for increasing child passenger seat safety:
- Select a car seat that fits in your vehicle properly before purchasing it.
- Avoid purchasing a car seat from yard sales, social media, and second-hand if you’re not able to verify its history.
- Model good behavior to young passengers and make sure you are wearing your seatbelt so your children will know it’s the right thing to do.
- Infant car seats should always be rear-facing.
- Be sure to check the maximum height and weight limits of the car seat so you know when to transition your child to the next size/level.
- For older children who are using booster seats with lap belts, ensure the belt is across the pelvic area, and the shoulder belt strap is placed across the shoulder. It should never be placed along a child’s neck or abdominal area. It should never be used under the arm or behind the back, as it could cause severe injury in a crash.
- Texas law states all children younger than 8 years old, unless taller than 4’9”, are required to be in the appropriate car seat wherever they ride in a passenger vehicle. The car seat MUST be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Children 8 years and older must be in seatbelts. If an adult hasn’t properly restrained a child, they can receive a $250 ticket.
DPS further states that certified car technicians can inspect your car seat installation or help with the process. Visit here to find an available inspection near you.
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