Keeping your precious passengers safe: A simple guide to child car seat safety

When it comes to keeping your kids safe in the car, car seats are a must. They’re not just helpful, they save lives. In fact, proper use of car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% and the risk of serious injury by 67%. That’s a big deal when it comes to keeping your most precious cargo safe.

Car seats have come a long way over the years. Did you know the first child car seat was invented in 1933? Did you know the first car seat was invented in the 1930s? It was mostly used to keep babies from rolling around, and not exactly built for safety. Thankfully, today’s car seats are made with high-tech materials and feature smart designs to protect little ones in case of a crash.

But it’s not just about having a car seat. It’s about having the right one, using it correctly, and knowing when to switch.

How do car seats protect your child?

Car seats are built to protect the head, neck, and spine, all areas that are especially fragile in young children.

They hold your child securely in place so they don’t get thrown forward or ejected from the seat. In a collision, they help spread out the force of the impact across the strongest parts of your child’s body, reducing the risk of serious injury. 

Read more: Staying safe in the summer: safety tips for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists

What kind of car seat does your child need?

As your child grows, so should their car seat. Here's a quick overview.

Infant car seats

Infant car seats are designed to be used in a rear-facing position only, which is the safest way for newborns and young babies to travel. These seats are made specifically for infants, typically accommodating babies from birth up to around 22 to 35 pounds. (Always check the label on your specific seat to confirm the weight limit). 

Infant car seats usually come with a carrying handle and a detachable base that stays installed in your vehicle, making it easy to click the seat in and out without disturbing your baby. The rear-facing position offers the best protection in the event of a crash, helping to cradle your baby’s delicate head, neck, and spine by spreading out the force of the impact.

Convertible car seats

Convertible car seats are designed to grow with your child. They start off rear-facing and then convert to forward-facing as your child gets older. These seats are a great choice for toddlers and preschoolers. It’s recommended to keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible—at least until the age of two, and longer if your car seat allows—because it offers better protection in the event of a crash.

Booster seats

Booster seats are designed for kids who have outgrown forward-facing car seats, usually once they weigh over 40 pounds. These seats help lift your child so that the vehicle’s seat belt fits correctly, which should be across the chest and hips, not the neck or stomach. Children should remain in a booster seat until they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall, which typically happens between the ages of eight and 12.

Seat belts

Seat belts should only be used once your child is big enough to wear them properly. The lap belt needs to sit low across the hips, not across the belly, to protect their internal organs in a crash. The shoulder belt should lie snug across the chest and shoulder, not cutting across the neck or face. If the seat belt doesn’t fit this way yet, your child still needs a booster seat. 

For more information, check out this guide from the government of Canada.

Read next: Buying a car for your teen? Here’s what to know

How to install a child car seat (the right way)

Installing a car seat can be tricky, but getting it right is super important. Here’s a simple step-by-step:

• Read the manual. (Both the car seat and your vehicle).
• Choose your seat’s location. The back seat is the safest.
• Secure the seat. Use either the UAS (Universal Anchorage System) or the seat belt (not both). The UAS is a system of built-in anchors in your vehicle that allows you to install a car seat without using the seat belt.
• Check for movement. The seat should move less than an inch side-to-side.
• Set the correct angle. This is especially important for newborns to keep airways open.
• Tighten the harness. You shouldn’t be able to pinch any slack at the shoulders.

Bonus tip: Many communities offer free car seat inspection clinics or have certified technicians available. A trained expert can check your installation to make sure everything is safe and secure.

Common child car seat mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Even the best parents can mess up car seat safety. Here are a few common mistakes:

• Using the wrong seat for your child’s age or size. Always check weight and height limits.
• Installing the seat too loosely. It should feel rock-solid at the base.
• Harness too loose or placed wrong. Straps should lie flat and be snug, chest clip at armpit level.
• Switching to forward-facing or booster too soon. Keep them rear-facing or in boosters as long as the seat allows.
• Using expired or damaged seats. Car seats usually expire after 6 to 10 years, as materials can degrade over time. Always check the label and replace them when needed.

Read more: How a car accident affects your insurance premium

What are the legal rules in Canada on child car seats?

Each province has its own rules, but here’s a quick look at a couple:

In Ontario:

• Kids must use a car seat or booster until they’re at least 8 years old, 80 lbs, or 4’9” tall.
• Penalties: $240 fine and two demerit points if you're caught breaking the rules.

In Alberta:

• Car seats are required for children under 6 years old and weighing less than 40 lbs.
• Penalties: $162 fine for not complying with occupant restraint laws and if you’re a GDL (Graduated Driver’s Licence) driver, you can also get 2 demerit points for having more passengers than seat belts.

If you’re unsure, check your province’s official website or speak to your insurance provider. 

Can improper child car seat use affect my insurance?

Yes, it can. If you’re in an accident and your child wasn’t properly secured, it may impact your insurance claim. Plus, any tickets or demerit points could affect your driving record and premiums. 

If you're ever in a collision, your child car seat should be replaced, even if it looks fine. Hidden damage can make it less effective in protecting your child.

Car seats aren’t just a box to check, they’re lifesavers. Take the time to choose the right seat, install it properly, and keep up with the rules as your child grows. Your child’s safety is worth every buckle, strap, and instruction manual page.

Learn more: Can a vehicle’s safety features get you cheaper car insurance?