If you are a parent, then you are probably familiar with the stress that comes with transporting young children. In addition to the occasional tantrum, there is the ever-present risk of your child suffering an injury in a car accident.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, crash injuries are leading causes of death among children in the United States, but many of these fatalities are preventable. According to the CDC, the use of a car seat can reduce the risk of death for infants by 71 percent and for toddlers by 54 percent.

Unfortunately, it is not always possible to prevent collisions. If the worst happens and a negligent driver injures you or your child, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A Monroe accident lawyer can evaluate your crash, talk to witnesses and determine if you may have grounds for a claim.

Here are the answers to five important questions about car seats:

Are Used Car Seats Safe?

According to Parenting.com, it is better to purchase a new car seat if you are not 100-percent certain of a used car seat’s history. A used seat may have been in an accident, or it may be missing parts. Some seats are recalled because their designs are unsafe. Unless you are certain that the seat is safe and in pristine condition, it is better to invest in a new one.

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Can the Child Seat be Loose?

It is never safe for a child seat to be loose. You must ensure that the car seat is secure in the vehicle and does not move around – even at high speeds. Also, make sure the straps fit snugly across the child.

When Should I Replace My Car Seat?

You should replace your car seat if it reaches the expiration date or if it has any broken or missing parts. Do not simply throw a broken or expired car seat in the trash; another person may use it without noticing the defects.

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Why do Car Seats “Expire?”

Safety standards and technology are constantly improving. Expired car seats may not meet modern standards. Also, the materials can wear down or break over time, which can make the seat ineffective in a crash.

Should I Replace a Seat that Was in an Accident?

You should replace a car seat after any mild to serious crash. The only time you may not need to replace the seat is if the accident was low speed and there was no – or very little – damage to the vehicle. If you are in doubt, then speak to the seat manufacturer for more information.

If you or your child was injured by a negligent driver, contact a Monroe accident attorney from Morris Bart, LLC. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income, health-care bills and other damages. Schedule a consultation today by calling 800-537-8185.

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