A key part of keeping your family safe on the road is making sure car seats are installed the right way—because most aren't.
“Around 70 – 80% of parents and caregivers install car seats incorrectly," says Jill Lucas-Drakeford, a certified child passenger safety technician at Carilion Children's. "That increases the risk of serious injury or death in a crash."
Jill offers these tips to help make sure your kids stay safe in the car:
1. Do the "Inch Test"
After installing the car seat, give it a tug at the base. If it moves more than an inch side to side or front to back, it’s not tight enough.
2. Check the Harness Fit
The harness straps should:
- Be at or below your child’s shoulders in a rear-facing seat
- Be at or above the shoulders in a forward-facing seat
- Lie flat without twists
- Have the chest clip placed at armpit level
- Be tight enough that they’re snug and you can’t pinch any material
3. Go for Rear-Facing
Keep children rear-facing as long as possible, at least until age 2. It offers the best protection in a crash.
4. Use a Booster Seat
When kids outgrow their forward-facing seats, a booster helps position the seat belt properly. Most kids need a booster until they’re at least 4 feet 9 inches tall (usually around age 9 – 12).
5. Buckle Up
Everyone in the vehicle should buckle up, every time. Even on short trips, make sure:
- Children are in the right seat for their age and size
- All adults and older kids wear seat belts (lap and shoulder!)
"Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective way to protect your life on the road," Jill reminds families.
6. Look Before You Lock
Hot cars can become deadly in minutes. Even in cooler weather, the inside of a car can heat up quickly. To prevent accidents:
- Put something you can’t forget (like your bag or shoe) in the back seat with your child
- Always check the back seat before locking the car
- Teach kids that cars are not places to play
What Do the Laws Say?
Virginia law requires:
- Children under 2 must ride in a rear-facing seat unless they meet the manufacturer’s height/weight limits to face forward
- Children under 8 must use a car seat or booster seat
- Children 8 – 17 must use a seat belt in all seating positions
- Adults in front seats must wear seatbelts
Free Car Seat Safety Checks
To make sure your child’s car seat is installed correctly, get it checked by a certified technician! Appointments are free, safe and helpful for parents, grandparents or caregivers. Contact 540-981-9435 or jalucas@carilionclinic.org to schedule yours today.
