Hundreds of children fall victim to car accidents every year. This is why it is important to always keep your vehicle in good condition, as well as to drive responsibly. Cars like the Toyota Fortuner from the Philippines are relatively safe vehicles. In spite of this, there are still plenty of things that you can do to totally secure the safety of your children inside this vehicle.
Here are some tips to help you protect your kids from vehicular accidents:
Make Sure that Children Rides in the Backseat
It is legal for children to sit on the front passenger seat. In spite of this, it is still more advisable for children under 12 years old to sit in the back. Even the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends this. The backseat is a much safer place, especially during car crashes so make your kids sit in the back.
Check the Car Seat
The car seat is an item that is supposed to help you keep your children safe in case of vehicular accidents. During car crashes, everyone who is not held down by seat belts can be injured. However, seat belts are not necessarily built for children which are why people buy car seats. The problem is that plenty of car seats are not installed properly. To avoid future problems, make sure to check the car seat before traveling. It should be easy and quick; if you encounter problems, make sure to contact certified child passenger safety technicians.
Use Rear-Facing Infant Seats
If you are traveling with an infant, make sure to purchase rear-facing infant seats. These car seats are designed specifically to offer more protection to your baby’s spine, head, and neck. Instead of installing it in the front seat, install it in the backseat instead because the force of the deployment of air bags in the front can actually hurt children too. You can use this car seat for one-year-old babies who weigh at least 22 pounds. Once your child exceeds the maximum weight, it’s time for you to stop using this type of car seat and purchase a different one to protect your child from vehicular accidents.
Wear Seat Belts
You should always wear your seat belts. This will not only keep you safe in case of accidents, but it will also encourage your kids to wear their seat belts. You see, most of the time, children love to imitate adults. This means that if you refuse to wear your seat belt, your kids will probably refuse wearing their seat belts too. Set a good example to your children by buckling up before hitting the road.
Make Your Children Use Lap and Shoulder Belts
It would be safer for your children if they use both the lap and shoulder belts since they offer better protection when combined. Make sure that the lap belt fits across your child’s upper thighs. Meanwhile, the shoulder belt should rest over your child’s shoulder and across his or her chest. Do not allow your children to put their shoulder belts under their arms.
Car accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. To keep your children safe from these incidents, make sure to follow the tips above. Have a safe trip!
Thank you for sharing your tips in road safety to protect the children in accidents.