There are ideal positions for both adults and children in cars. Even for the driver, there’s a safer way to sit that will reduce the severity of injuries in case of an accident. While there are strict rules as to how parents should seat kids in a vehicle, those standards get upgraded consistently with the newest information. Adults, on the other hand, don’t have as many rules and regulations. If you’re the one operating the car, there’s only one seat to take. Fortunately, there are ways to stay safe, wherever you end up sitting.
The Safest Place is the Middle Seat
While everyone complains about sitting in “the hump,” it’s the safest place in a vehicle, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Being in the middle puts you at the farthest reach from any impact. It’s recommended to place children in this spot. It is still essential to buckle up, though. Most devastating crashes are either front, read-end, or T-bone accidents, so those in the center are protected. Whiplash is still a threat though, so those who aren’t buckled in can expect severe neck or back injuries.
Guidelines for Children
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has advised parents and guardians of infants and toddlers to use rear-facing car seats until the age of two. Recent studies have caused the AAP, the leading pediatric organization in the US, to alter their recommendations. The AAP has removed the age criteria and now advises parents to transport children in rear-facing seats until they reach the minimum size designated by their car seat. Each car seat comes marked with height and weight recommendations.
Here are a few tips for seating kids:
- Choose appropriately sized car seats
- Face the seat to the rear, centered in the back seat when possible
- Properly install the place
- Properly restrain the child
Transporting children in car seats suited to their size and weight is essential to safe travel. Facing the car seat to the rear for as long as possible has proven the ultimate safety measure.
Sitting Safe for Drivers
Car companies conduct crash tests before putting out a new model, so make sure you’re paying attention and investing in a safe car in the first place. Once you’re already driving, make sure that you fit well into the seat or can adjust the mechanics to fit your size. You should have the ability to reach all the pedals and gears without having to shift around. Individuals can contact a mechanic and make sure their car has working airbags and breaks, which will help immensely if there’s a sudden impact.
Call a Monroe Car Accident Lawyer
Sometimes, you can do everything by the book and still end up in a mishap on the road. In this situation, it is vital to call an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At E. Orum Young, we pride ourselves in fighting for the rights of car accident victims throughout Louisiana. Be sure to call (318) 450-6453 or complete our contact form for a free case review. Our Monroe car accident lawyers has decades of experience resolving personal injury cases with many successful results.
