Keeping children safe in the car is a top priority for any parent, and it involves much more than just using car seats. Creating a secure environment requires a comprehensive approach where everyone in the vehicle follows best practices for safety. While many parents understand the importance of car seats and auto insurance, consider additional factors that contribute to overall safety. Make your auto insurance policy your last line of defense, not the first.

Proper car seat use

Installing and using your child’s car seat correctly is one of the most important things you can do for their safety. Did you know that many car seats are not installed properly? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has great advice on what parents should do:

• Find the right car seat
• Learn about the four car seat types
• Follow NHTSA’s car seat recommendations based on your child’s age and size
• Find and compare car seats and ease-of-use-ratings using NHTSA’s Car Seat Finder
• Install your car seat correctly
• Understand the parts and tips used for installation
• Follow our detailed car seat installation instructions and videos
• Get your car seat inspected at a station nearest you
• Keep your child safe in a car seat
• Register your car seat and sign up for recall notices to receive safety updates

Seat belt use

Seat belts save lives, and their proper use is crucial for every passenger. Are you sure everyone in your car is buckling up the right way? Seat belts are the most effective safety device for preventing injury in a crash. Make sure the belt fits properly, resting on the upper thighs and chest, not the stomach or neck. Not only does this keep everyone in the car safe, it also models good passenger behavior for the children present.