Car Seat Safety a Priority for Capital Volkswagen Panama City Area Drivers

Apr 4, 2013

Traveling with children requires an attention to detail and attention to safety. Kids need to be well-cared for inside the vehicle to prevent driver’s distraction and severe injuries during an impact. Decades ago, children’s regulations on the roads were much different than they are today. In the past, kids were free to roam inside the cabin of a Panama City area VW without breaking any laws.

However, the regulations have changed and due to advanced technology in vehicles, they are required to be in the back seat. Children under 80 pounds should also be properly restrained in a car seat that is suitable for their age and their weight. Car seats are not the same for all kids. They need to be upgraded as the child grows.

Infants need to be in a seat that faces backwards for the first year provided the child fits safely in the vehicle. Seats then will need to face forward and fit the child comfortably, ensuring the seat belt restraints work safely at keeping a child safe. Car seats with a 5-point harness use their own seat belts but are secured into your vehicle.

Each seat is fastened into the vehicle differently so it is vital to follow the directions of the manufacturer and be sure the child car seat or booster seat is properly installed. If you have just purchased a new or used Panama City Volkswagen, our service center can help you install the child seats you have in the vehicle, using the proper restraints.

Seats Need to Grow with Kids

The seat your two-year old will not be the same seat you likely use when your child is five years old. Seats must grow with your child’s height and weight. A seat that is too small or too big will not protect your child during an impact like it would if it was the right fit. Read the manufacturer’s directives before buying a seat or ask your child’s pediatrician for advice on selecting the right seat. Use caution when purchasing a car seat secondhand.

Child safety seats are meant to protect kids from flying around the cabin during a collision or being ejected. Kids’ seats should always be placed in the back seat to protect from additional injuries caused by air bag systems. They should keep the child safely and securely positioned into the vehicle and all toys and other belongings should also be secured for overall safety.