As a mother of 3, I pay close attention to the safety of my children. I’m always concerned about what they are getting into and what can potentially harm them. I do this even more so when it comes to being in the car and driving. You never know when an accident could happen so I try to be prepared as much as possible. Here are some of the things I do to keep my children safe while driving.
Learn your state’s laws:
In New York State, all children must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system while riding in a motor vehicle, until they reach their 8th birthday. Wondering what an appropriate child restraint system is? An appropriate child restraint system is one that meets the child’s size and weight recommended by the manufacturer. So make sure to check the car seat you will be using to make sure it works for your child. Also, remember that the back seat is best. New York does not have a law preventing children from sitting in the front seat, it is highly recommended that all children age 12 and under ride properly restrained in the back seat. I don’t personally live in NY; this is for my friends at Central Avenue Chrysler Jeep.
Choosing the Car Seat:
I know there are tons of different types are car seats out there. The best thing you can do for your family is to choose what fits your child and car at the same time. The amount of children in your car also matters. We have 2 of our 3 children in a child restraint system and it gets hard to work around in a midsize car. Once our baby gets closer to outgrowing the infant seat, we have to decide on not only a new car seat but deciding on whether or not to change cars as well.
Make sure the seat belts are properly secured:
This is one thing that is important. Yes, you have that perfect car seat but it doesn’t do its job if the seat belt isn’t secured the way its supposed to be. 2 of my children buckle themselves. I try to watch them buckle to make sure they do it correctly.
Driving can be fun and safe as long as you take the safety precautions necessary to drive. Trust yourself and you’ll do just fine.
