After An Accident: What Do You Do With The Carseat?

Parents go to great lengths to ensure the safety of their children. From meticulously baby-proofing their homes to installing car seats properly and teaching them about personal safety, parents spare no effort in keeping their little ones secure. 

We invest time in researching and purchasing the best safety equipment, from childproof locks to safety gates, to create a secure environment for their children to explore and play.

In addition to physical safety measures, parents also educate their children about potential dangers they may encounter. We have conversations about stranger danger and teach their children how to cross the road safely. We instill the importance of wearing seat belts and helmets and consistently emphasize the significance of following safety guidelines.

Despite our unwavering commitment to safety, unforeseen circumstances, such as vehicle accidents, can pose a threat that cannot always be predicted or prevented.

No matter how meticulously we adhere to safety measures, the potential for an unexpected collision on the road reminds us that some dangers are beyond our control.

After an accident, it’s natural to feel shaken up. You might be dealing with injuries, insurance companies, and the emotional fallout of the crash. 

However, in the face of such an unexpected incident, we continue to prioritize safety by staying informed about car seat regulations, teaching our children about road safety, and taking necessary precautions to minimize risks, exemplifying our enduring dedication to safeguarding our loved ones.

One crucial thing that many parents may not have thought about after a car accident: What do you do with the car seat? 

The answer is important because your child's safety could depend on it. We’re going to break down exactly what to do with your car seat after a collision and when you need to get a new one to make sure your little one is always protected.

Four Questions About Car Seats After Accidents

1. Do I Really Need a New Car Seat After an Accident?

This is the first question most people ask. After all, car seats are expensive, and it might be tempting to keep using the same one – especially if the crash seemed minor or if your child wasn’t even in the car. However, the most important thing is to put your child's safety first.

Although they might look fine from the outside, car seats are designed to absorb the force of an impact. That impact, even from a minor collision, can weaken or damage the car seat. This means that it might not be as effective at protecting your child in another crash.

Think of a car seat like a helmet. Once a helmet has been through a significant impact, you wouldn't just put it back on your child's head without checking if it’s still safe. The same goes for car seats. This hidden damage might not be visible to you, but it could put your child at risk.

2. What Do You Do With The Car Seat After The Accident?

Car accidents are, thankfully, fairly uncommon for each of us, and even when they do happen, most are considered “minor.” The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) classifies a minor crash using these points:

• The car can be driven from the crash.
• The door closest to the car seat was undamaged.
• None of the people in the vehicle got hurt.
• The airbags did not go off.
• The car seat does not appear damaged.

However, car seat manufacturers often have stricter guidelines. While the NHTSA might say it’s fine to keep using the car seat after a “minor” crash, the company that made it might require you to replace it anyway. 

How do you know when to replace a car seat after an accident? This chart breaks down what car seat manufacturers say about replacing their seats after a crash. This should make figuring out whether or not you should get a new car seat a bit simpler. It’s critical to keep those little ones safe.

3. What Happens If I Reuse a Car Seat After An Accident?

After a car accident where you choose to reuse the car seat and are then in another collision, your insurance company could deny your claim if they find out you reuse a car seat that should've been replaced. If it's determined that a damaged car seat contributed to your child's sustained injuries, you could be held liable for injuries.

4. What About My Car Insurance - Will They Pay for a New Seat?

You might think you have to shell out a lot of cash for a brand-new car seat after an accident, but thankfully, some insurance companies may cover the cost of a car seat accident replacement. It never hurts to contact your insurance provider, explain the situation, and see if your policy terms cover car seat replacement.

If you need a little extra support to convince your car insurance company, you can show them your child's car seat's instruction manual (or find it online). Often, these manuals state that the car seat shouldn’t be used again after a collision.

And, if your insurance company digs in their heels, remind them that using a damaged car seat could actually make *them* liable down the line. It’s in everybody's best interest to have a safe and functional car seat.

Other Times to Retire Your Car Seat

Car accidents are not the only thing that can compromise your car seat. Other circumstances can cause enough wear and tear or damage that it needs to be replaced – sometimes even if it looks perfectly fine.

1. Expiration Dates - Because Car Seats “Go Bad”

Did you know that car seats have an expiration date? Expiration dates vary between manufacturers. They are typically found printed on a sticker on your car seat (sometimes hidden on the underside of the seat). But why do car seats have expiration dates at all?

Car seats are made of materials like plastic and foam that wear out over time. Sunlight, heat, and just regular use all contribute. An expired seat might not protect your kid as well in a crash, and an old car seat might even have hidden safety issues. Technology in this space is always changing, so newer models might have better safety features.

2. Car Seats Are Occasionally Recalled

Just like any product, car seats can have recalls issued for them if a safety defect is discovered. To check for car seat recalls:

• Visit the manufacturer’s website. Look for a section titled "Safety Notices," "Product Recalls," or something similar.
• Register your car seat online. You'll need to provide the model number and manufacturing date, but once that's done, they will alert you of any recalls on their site or, if they’re anything like my car seat company, through email.
• Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website for updates.

3. Your Car Seat is Showing Visible Signs of Damage

Give your child’s car seat a quick once-over now and then. Check for cracks in the plastic, fraying straps, or any other visible damage that could make it unsafe. Sometimes, the damage is more than skin deep.

Some ways your car seat might have been damaged by something other than a vehicle accident include:

• Exposure to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold)
• Excessive wear and tear from daily use
• Spills and stains that lead to deterioration of materials
• Improper cleaning methods, such as harsh chemicals or high-pressure washing
• Rough handling during installation or removal
• Dropping the car seat during transport or storage
• Damage from pets or animals chewing or scratching the material
• Sunlight exposure that leads to fading and weakening of fabric and plastic components
• Incorrect storage, such as leaving the seat in a compressed position for extended periods
• Mold or mildew growth due to moisture exposure

Have You or Your Child Been Injured in a Vehicle Accident?

The Law Offices of Timothy D. Welborn understands the stress and challenges that can arise after a vehicle accident, especially when it involves injuries to you or your child. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and experienced legal support to help you navigate through this difficult time.

If you or your child have been injured in a vehicle accident, our law firm is here to help. We have a strong track record of advocating for our clients and ensuring that they receive the compensation they deserve. Our team will work tirelessly to investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.

We understand the importance of ensuring that your child's safety and well-being are prioritized, and we will fight to hold those responsible for the accident accountable. Whether it's dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, or understanding the legal process, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.

At the Law Offices of Timothy D. Welborn, we are committed to delivering personalized attention and tailored legal solutions to meet your specific needs. If you're seeking legal representation after a vehicle accident, don't hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation. We are here to support and advocate for you and your child during this challenging time.