Avoiding Common Car Seat Safety Mistakes

Ensuring your child's safety in the car is a top priority, but even well-meaning parents can make mistakes when it comes to car seat installation and use. Here’s a guide to help you avoid common car seats safety mistakes and ensure that your little one travels safely every time you hit the road.

1. Incorrect Harness Adjustment

Mistake: One of the most frequent errors is not adjusting the harness straps correctly. The harness should be snug enough that you can’t pinch any slack at the shoulders, and the chest clip should be at armpit level.

Solution: Regularly check and adjust the harness straps as your child grows. Make sure the straps are properly threaded through the appropriate slots according to the car seat manufacturer’s guidelines. The chest clip should always be at the child’s armpit level, and you should not be able to pinch any slack in the harness.

2. Improper Car Seat Installation

Mistake: An improperly installed car seat is a major safety risk. Common installation errors include the car seat being too loose or not installed at the correct angle.

Solution: Follow the car seat and vehicle manuals carefully. The car seat should not move more than an inch side-to-side or front-to-back when installed correctly. If you’re unsure, consider having your installation checked by a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST).

3. Using the Car Seat Beyond Its Expiration Date

Mistake: Car seats come with an expiration date, typically 6-10 years from the date of manufacture. Using a car seat past its expiration date can compromise its effectiveness.

Solution: Check the expiration date on your car seat, which is usually located on the bottom or side of the seat. Replace your car seat when it reaches its expiration date to ensure it meets current safety standards.

4. Reusing a Car Seat After a Crash

Mistake: Some parents mistakenly believe that a car seats involved in a minor accident is still safe to use. However, car seats can be damaged in ways that aren’t visible.

Solution: Replace your car seat if it has been involved in any crash, regardless of severity. Most manufacturers and safety organizations recommend replacing a car seat after any crash to ensure its continued effectiveness.

5. Incorrect Reclining Angle

Mistake: For rear-facing car seats, the correct reclining angle is crucial. If the seat is too upright, your baby’s head may fall forward, which can obstruct their airway.

Solution: Use the car seat’s recline indicator to ensure the seat is at the proper angle. Most car seats have built-in levels or indicators to help you achieve the correct angle for your child’s age and size. Make sure to adjust the recline as your baby grows and their head control improves.

6. Not Using the Top Tether Strap

Mistake: For forward-facing car seats with a top tether, some parents skip using it. The top tether helps to limit the forward movement of the car seat during a crash and is mandatory in Canada.

Solution: Always use the top tether strap when installing a forward-facing car seat. This significantly increases the safety of the car seat by reducing the risk of head and neck injuries.

7. Inappropriate Car Seat Use

Mistake: Using a car seat in a way that’s not intended, such as using it as a carrier or a makeshift stroller seat, can compromise its safety features.

Solution: Use the car seat only as directed by the manufacturer. Follow all guidelines for installation and use. Avoid using the car seat outside of the vehicle unless it is specifically designed for that purpose.

8. Outgrowing the Car Seat Too Soon

Mistake: Transitioning your child to a booster seat or a different car seat too early can expose them to higher risks in the event of a crash.

Solution: Follow the car seat manufacturer’s guidelines for height, weight, and age limits. Keep your child in a rear-facing seat as long as possible, then transition to a forward-facing seat with a harness before moving to a booster seat. Ensure each transition is made at the appropriate time according to your child’s size and development.

9. Not Using the Car Seat Properly in Different Vehicles

Mistake: Car seats may not fit or be installed correctly in every vehicle, leading to a false sense of security.

Solution: Always test the car seat in the vehicle you will be using it in. Adjust the installation if necessary to ensure it fits snugly and securely. Remember that installation methods may vary depending on the vehicle, so always follow both the car seat and vehicle manuals.

10. Ignoring the Manual

Mistake: Many parents neglect to thoroughly read the car seat manual, which contains critical information on proper installation and use.

Solution: Take the time to read both the car seat and vehicle manuals. They provide essential instructions and guidelines that are crucial for the correct and safe use of the car seat. Keep the manuals handy for reference and follow the instructions carefully.

10. Ignoring the Manual

Mistake: Many parents neglect to thoroughly read the car seat manual, which contains critical information on proper installation and use.

Solution: Take the time to read both the car seat and vehicle manuals. They provide essential instructions and guidelines that are crucial for the correct and safe use of the car seat. Keep the manuals handy for reference and follow the instructions carefully.

Proper car seat use is vital for your child’s safety on the road. By avoiding these common mistakes and staying informed about best practices, you can ensure that your child’s car seat provides the maximum protection. Regularly review your car seat’s installation and use, and don’t hesitate to reach out! West Coast Kids is here to help. We have a team of CPSTs on staff who are happy to help address any concerns or questions at any time.