(Special to The Dallas Examiner) – Between 2023 to 2024, the death of children under 8 years old who were unrestrained at the time of a fatal crash in Texas grew from 30% to 40%. Moreover, 46% of all car seats – that’s nearly one out of two – were not correctly installed, putting small children at risk of injury or death during a collision, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Most parents will do anything to protect their child – like checking under the bed for monsters at night or researching all the ingredients in baby food. But one of the most effective ways to protect children is often overlooked: properly securing them in a car seat every time they ride.
Texas saw an increase in unrestrained children younger than 8 dying in crashes last year.
“The rise in unrestrained deaths is heartbreaking and unacceptable,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “These tragedies are preventable. Every parent and caregiver must make it a nonnegotiable habit to properly secure their child in a car seat or booster – every ride, every time. Children’s lives depend on it.”
It’s vital that children are buckled up in properly installed car seats. Installing a car seat correctly can be challenging.
Texas law requires all children under the age of 8 or shorter than 4 feet, 9 inches, to be in a car seat when riding in a passenger vehicle. Failure to properly restrain a child can result in a ticket of up to $250.
What parents can do
Parents and caregivers can schedule a free car seat safety check by visiting https://www.savemewithaseat.org and enter their ZIP code to find the nearest TxDOT office. During September, the Save Me with a Seat campaign will make stops in multiple Texas cities, showcasing an interactive educational experience that features a space-travel-themed backdrop.
The Save Me with a Seat campaign is part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. The initiative is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, everyone can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at https://www.drivelikeatexan.com.