SATURDAY, July 10, 2010 (HealthDay News) -- Incorrect use of child safety seats is a major reason why car accidents remain the leading cause of disability and death among children in the United States, an expert warns.
Research has shown that seven out of 10 car seats are not installed correctly, Dr. Karen Judy, an associate professor in the pediatrics department at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, noted in a Loyola news release.
She added that the proper use of safety seats is essential for young children.
"If your child weighs less than 80 pounds and is shorter than 57 inches, a seat belt will lay across the child's neck and belly. In the event of an accident this puts pressure on sensitive areas with the potential for serious injuries, including spinal cord and abdominal injuries or even death. No matter how short the trip, if your child is in the car, he or she should be in a child safety seat," Judy said in the news release.
To help keep children safe while traveling in a car, Judy offered the following tips:
"By taking simple but important measures, parents can protect their children from the number one killer in our nation," Judy stated. She added that "studies have shown that by taking these precautions the likelihood of your child being killed or disabled in a motor vehicle crash decreases significantly. It's an easy way to save kids' lives."
More information
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has more about child vehicle safety.