Friendly Reminders for Child Passenger Safety Week

AUSTIN, TX — In observance of Child Passenger Safety Week, running from September 15 to September 20, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is emphasizing the importance of proper child car seat usage to ensure the safety of the state’s youngest passengers.

DPS Director Steven McCraw highlighted the critical role that adults play in setting an example for children when it comes to vehicle safety. “Children mimic the adults around them, so it is critical for parents, grandparents, and loved ones to model the importance of wearing seatbelts and following other safe practices in the car,” McCraw said. “A child’s best protection in a vehicle collision is to be buckled up correctly in the right car seat – and the department urges all drivers to make sure they know what those best practices are as soon as possible.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes are among the leading causes of death for children aged 1 to 13. In 2022 alone, 1,129 children lost their lives in car crashes across the U.S.

In its ongoing effort to protect children on Texas roadways, the DPS offered several guidelines for parents and guardians regarding child passenger safety:

• Car seat selection: Ensure the car seat fits your vehicle properly before purchasing.
• Used car seats: Avoid buying car seats from yard sales or social media platforms unless you are aware of the seat’s history.
• Modeling good behavior: Set an example by always wearing your seatbelt to encourage young passengers to do the same.
• Rear-facing seats: Infants should always ride in rear-facing car seats; forward-facing positions are not recommended for infants.
• Transitioning car seats: Be sure to check the car seat’s height and weight limits so children can be moved to the next appropriate seat at the right time.
• Booster seat positioning: For children using booster seats with lap belts, ensure the belt is across the pelvic area, and the shoulder strap is properly placed across the shoulder. The belt should never be placed on the neck or abdomen, and it should not be positioned under the arm or behind the back, as this could cause serious injuries in an accident.

Texas law mandates that all children under 8 years old, unless taller than 4’9”, must be secured in an appropriate car seat in passenger vehicles. Car seats must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Failure to properly restrain a child can result in a fine of up to $250. Children aged 8 and older must wear a seatbelt.

Certified technicians are available across the state to inspect car seat installations or assist in the process. Residents can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website to find a nearby inspection location.

For more information on car seat safety, visit the NHTSA website or contact your local DPS office.