Having small children in the car can be scary, especially if you’re worried about getting into an accident that’s not your fault. It can be impossible to predict the actions of other drivers, but there are a few steps you can take to make your little one as safe as possible while in the car.
Proper child restraints and booster seats
Small children should be appropriately restrained and facing forward – as long as they are over 15 months old. If it is a brand new baby you will need a rear-facing seat. However, if the booster seat or restraints are poorly fitted, they may as well not be there at all. It is extremely important that the booster seat be the exact one that your child needs, as tempting as it may be to accept second-hand seats from family etc. For small children, booster seats with a back are an absolute must. You then have a choice between a height-based seat and a weight-based seat. Ask the retailer for more information on which seat would be best for your child to ensure it is as safe as possible. Check that the restraints are not twisted or baggy in any way, with a gap of two fingers. Check that everything is fastened and buckled in properly and that your child’s arms are correctly secured.
Buy a Breakdown Kit
If anything does happen to your car and you are either run off the road or simply break down, you need to make sure you can keep your child warm and happy until help comes. Keep bottles of water/milk and blankets in the boot along with something to keep your little one out of the sun. If you have a child in the car, always make sure you have a fully charged phone to contact help.
Never leave them alone
Especially in hot weather, it could be fatal to leave your small child in the car. Heat can affect children far more aggressively than it will adults. Never risk leaving the car without your child, even for a few minutes.
If you do get into an accident that wasn’t your fault, you are fully entitled to a replacement courtesy car with Not My Fault that is 100% child-friendly and safe. For accident replacement vehicle enquiries, please get in touch with us today.
