Why Is This Important?
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and injury to children under 14 years of age. More than 1300 children are killed in motor vehicle crashes each year. Many injuries can be prevented or minimized, particularly in children under 4'9" tall, by correctly using an appropriate car or booster seat in vehicles. Research through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has demonstrated that car seats can reduce the risk of injury by 71% in children under 1 year of age and by 54% in children 1-4 years of age. Booster seats reduce injury risk in 4-8 year olds by 45%.