There is nothing more terrifying than the injury of your child. To prevent our children from being injured in automobile accidents, we use approved Florida car seats. Unfortunately, some of these car seats are poorly produced and ill-prepared for an actual crash.
If your child has been injured in an accident despite using a car seat, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer at Fetterman & Associates for assistance and representation. We care deeply about the health and safety of your family. Call our office at 561-845-2510 for a free case evaluation.
Florida Law
According to state law, when riding in an automobile:
- Children five or younger must be secured in a federally-approved child restraint system at all times.
- Children three or younger must use a separate car seat (unless the vehicle has a built-in child seat).
- Children four and five must sit in a separate car seat, a built-in child seat, or a seat belt. This depends on the child’s height and weight.
In addition to these laws, all children between the ages of six and 18 must wear seat belts. The “supervising adult” is responsible for ensuring these rules are followed. Failure may result in a fine and points against your license.
The Four Types of Car Seats
There are four major types of car seats, including prenatal, rear-facing, front-facing, and booster.
- Prenatal – Uses seat belt adjustments to protect an unborn baby.
- Rear-Facing – Designed for babies and toddlers. These car seats may be inconvenient, but they are ultimately safer for your child’s head, neck, and back.
- Front-Facing – Designed for toddlers and young children. Ideally, children will be kept in these car seats until they reach five or six years of age. However, other signs you child is ready for a booster seat include surpassing height and weight restrictions or shoulders growing beyond the top harness.
- Booster Seat – Designed for children too large for a front-facing car seat, but too small for a traditional seat belt.
Properly Installing and Using a Car Seat
Using your Florida car seat properly is essential. Read instructions carefully and ensure the harness fits correctly. The harness should be snug, allowing a single finger underneath. Avoid covers or positioners that are not sold with the car seat. They could become a hazard in the event of an accident.
When you choose the right car seat for your child – and install that car seat properly – you protect yourself from blame should the car seat fail. Instead, you’ll be able to hold the manufacturer responsible for damage done to your family.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney for Representation
If your child has been injured in an automobile accident despite wearing an approved Florida car seat, contact an experienced personal injury attorney for representation at Fetterman & Associates. Our team is dedicated to the well-being of your family. We’ll complete paperwork, meet deadlines, and simplify the process – giving you time to focus on what matters most. Call 561-845-2510.