The researchers found that 95% of families made at least one error in car seat use, and 91% made a serious error. The most common errors included loose harness and car seat installation, low chest clip, and incorrect recline angle. Although 15% of families had, in fact, worked with a certified car safety technician, 83% of them still had at least one error in use. Factors that contributed to a higher rate of car seat misuse included lower socioeconomic status, lower educational attainment, and non-English primary language.
‘A higher rate of car seat misuse was due to factors such as lower socioeconomic status, lower educational attainment, and non-English primary language.
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Families should be encouraged to work with certified car seat technicians prior to hospital discharge. However, more needs to be done to ensure infant safety. "Car safety seats are much more difficult to use correctly than they should be," notes Dr. Hoffman. "Vehicle and car seat manufacturers must work together to develop systems that are easier for consumers to use and understand. Further, health systems should provide resources and support both before and after birth, especially to the most vulnerable infants, to ensure the safe use of car seats."
Source: Eurekalert
