Sallas Auto Repair’s Recommendations for Keeping Children Passengers Safe

Kansas City, MO, November 12, 2011 --(PR.com)-- According to the National Highway Traffic Administration, car accidents occur every minute. While driving with children passengers, it’s even more important to take every precaution to keep children safe and avoid accidents. Auto Repair Shop owner Nick Sallas offers advice to parents questioning some of the new car seat regulations, and offers ideas for traveling safely with precious cargo in tow.

“I’ve been there. As a parent myself I know what a hassle car seats can be, and especially as children get older and heavier, and seem less fragile. However, the big picture isn’t about the hassle – but the goal of protecting our kids and keeping them safe,” said Nick Sallas from sallasauto.com.

Following Recommendations for Child Car Seats
Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics updated the car seat standards. The AAP now advises parents of toddlers under age two to keep car seats rear facing. According to AAP, rear-facing seats are five times safer for young children who have weak necks and spines that aren’t strong enough to handle a collision. Injury Prevention Journal even stated that children under age two are 75% less likely to die or be injured in a car accident if buckled into a car seat that is rear facing. If an accident occurs when a child is rear facing, the impact will be evenly distributed through a child’s head, neck and spine, and can prevent serious injury.

“Although it may be easier to interact with the child if they are facing forward, the risks aren’t worth it. I’d recommend keeping the seat facing backwards until the child meets the maximum weight and height limits for optimal safety,” said Sallas.

Set Car Rules
Keeping kids safe once they outgrow car seats continues to be a growing concern for parents. For older children, Sallas recommends setting car rules like no hitting, staying seated and buckled, no throwing balls, and even a maximum volume level for any entertainment devices. This will maximize driver safety while minimizing driving distractions.

###