You might not be able to control a crying baby in a car, but you can take important steps to keep them safe while traveling. Fortunately, most parents and caregivers understand the importance of having car seats. Knowing how to use them properly is just as important, as are the safety tips described below.
Check to See if the Car Seat Is Installed Properly
Before a baby is put into a vehicle, the car seat must be correctly installed. Newborns up to 3 years old generally need rear-facing ones, and children from 2 to 7 years old can use forward-facing car seats. The type of seat depends on the little one’s size and weight. The car seat should come with installation instructions, but if you need help, hospitals and other organizations often provide free car seat safety check-ups.
It is important to have the seat installed on the right angle, so the baby’s head will not slump downwards onto the chest; that can block the airway. Make sure that the seat’s five-point harness is adjusted properly, too. It should be snug against your baby, but not too tight. If you want to add car seat accessories like vehicle seat protectors, make sure that they are manufactured by the same company because off-brand ones might not be compatible.
Make Sure the Baby’s Clothes Are Appropriate for the Car Seat
Warm babies are happy babies, but bulky clothing like heavy winter coats can prevent the buckles from closing. Those straps and buckles can also move around if the clothing does. Instead of overdressing your baby, use light layers. You can use a cover for warmth, as long as it’s made by the same manufacturer.
Feel free to warm up the car ahead of time, and bring in your baby when it is nice and comfortable inside. If the baby is too hot, turn down the heat.
Plan for Frequent Stops
Before you head out, plan for frequent stops and bring along extra supplies, like bottles, food, clothing, and toys. If you need to feed your baby or change a diaper, pull over somewhere safe to do so. It is unsafe to attempt either of these in a moving vehicle. You can also feed and change your baby before leaving the house to prevent extra stops.
Check Traffic and Weather Reports
It is also a good idea to check the traffic and weather reports before taking a trip with your baby. Try to avoid bad weather by leaving earlier or later, and choose alternate routes when roads and highways are backed up.
Eliminate Distractions
Avoid a distracted driving car accident by putting your phone on Do Not Disturb mode and placing it out of reach. If the baby does start to fuss, do not turn your head around to look because that takes your eyes away from the road. As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over and attend to their needs.
Towson Personal Injury Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Can Advocate for Your Family
Getting into a car accident is bad enough when you are alone, but when vulnerable passengers are injured, matters become much worse. To learn more, speak with one of our Towson personal injury lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC. Call us at 443-589-0150 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Hunt Valley and Towson, Maryland, we serve clients in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Bel Air, Bentley Springs, Columbia, Freeland, Hereford, Hampton, Westminster, Essex, Monkton, Sparks Glencoe, Parkton, Phoenix, Pikesville, White Hall, Carroll County, Harford County, and Howard County.
