Your children are the most precious cargo in your vehicle. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to keep your kids safe if an accident happens.
In addition to purchasing a vehicle with a high safety rating, using the appropriate car seat can prevent injuries or reduce their severity. If you are currently shopping for a child seat, then you probably have several questions such as:
- How long can my child stay in the car seat?
- Is it ok to borrow a car seat?
- And can I use the same car seat after an accident?
This article will answer these questions and put you in a better position to keep your children safe on the roads. If the worst happens and you or your child suffers an injury due to a negligent driver, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP.
An injury attorney in New York City can investigate your accident, gather evidence, talk to witnesses and structure your claim. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, health-care bills and other damages.
Call 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation. You can also learn more about accident claims in New York by visiting the USAttorneys website.
Here are three common questions about child car seats:
- How long can my child stay in the car seat?
According to Parenting.com, every car seat is different. Most last between five and nine years from the date of manufacture.
It is important to read the owner’s manual to determine if the seat has an expiration date or maintenance requirements. You may also be able to find the expiration date molded in the car seat – close to the labels that list other safety information.
- Is it ok to borrow a car seat?
According to The Car Seat Lady, it is not a good idea to borrow or buy a second-hand car seat. It may be broken or lack the necessary certifications. Unless you can guarantee that the seat has not been in a crash, has all the necessary parts, and has never been recalled, then you should purchase a new seat from a reputable manufacturer.
- Can I still use a car seat after an accident?
If you have been in a moderate to severe car accident, it is best to discard the seat. If you were only in a minor crash, then the seat may still be safe to use.
A minor accident usually means that you could drive away from the crash site, there were no injuries, and the airbags did not deploy. If the door nearest to the child sustained damage or there is visible damage to the seat, then you should purchase a new one.
Unfortunately, even the safest drivers cannot control the actions of other road users. If you were injured in a car wreck that another person caused, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP.
A New York City accident attorney can gather evidence, structure your claim and handle settlement negotiations. Our lawyers have more than 75 years of combined experience negotiating and litigating personal-injury claims. Call 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation.