Car Seat Safety in Kansas City, MO
Car Seat Safety for Babies
Using the correct car seat and installing it properly is one of the most important ways to protect your child from serious injury. Car seat guidelines can feel overwhelming, but our goal is to help families understand the basics and feel confident keeping their children safe.
Why Car Seat Safety Matters
Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury in children. Proper car seat use significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death during a crash. Choosing the right seat and using it correctly makes a real difference.
General Car Seat Guidelines
While recommendations may change as children grow, general safety principles include:
- Rear-facing seats for infants and young children for as long as possible
- Forward-facing seats with a harness once rear-facing limits are exceeded
- Booster seats until adult seat belts fit properly
- Always using the back seat for children
Your child’s height, weight, and development matter more than age alone.
Common Car Seat Mistakes
Common issues we see include:
- Loose harness straps
- Bulky clothing or winter coats under the harness
- Incorrect seat angle or positioning
- Moving children out of rear-facing too early
- Improper installation of the car seat
What You Can Do at Home
To improve car seat safety:
- Read the car seat manual carefully
- Ensure harness straps are snug and properly positioned
- Avoid bulky coats under the harness
- Register your car seat with the manufacturer for safety recalls
- Schedule a car seat safety check when available in your community
When to Call Us
Call our office if you have questions about:
- Choosing the right car seat for your child
- Transitioning to a new type of car seat
- Proper fit or harness positioning
- Car seat safety guidance for special medical needs
📞 Call (816) 792-1170 and select option 3 to reach nurse triage.
How We Support Car Seat Safety
During well-child visits, providers routinely discuss safety topics, including car seat use. We can help review general guidelines and connect families with local car seat safety resources when needed.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have questions about car seat safety or want to review recommendations during a visit, we’re here to help.
Request an Appointment through our online form, or call our nurse triage line for guidance.
