Even if you are a vigilant driver, you cannot control the behavior and decisions of other motorists. Understanding that crashing is an inherent risk of driving your vehicle can help you establish rules to protect yourself and those you love from danger.
Even if you do end up in an accident, taking certain steps before your journey could protect your children against severe injuries.
Proper restraint
Perhaps the most important thing you can do to optimize your children’s safety while driving is to invest in proper restraints. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of injury drops a staggering 71-82% for children properly buckled into a car seat when compared with those only using a seatbelt.
When selecting an appropriate car seat for your children, assess their weight, height and age. Carefully follow all manufacturer instructions as you install and adjust the apparatus. You can also inquire within your community for car seat experts who can check that you have correctly installed and secured your children’s seats in your vehicle.
Respectful behavior
Another great way to improve your children’s vehicle safety is to teach them about respectful driving behavior. Prior to leaving anywhere, make sure your children have anything they need such as a drink of water, a small snack or a favorite stuffed animal. Remind them that you cannot tend to their needs while you drive.
Have a discussion about urgent needs so everyone has a mutual understanding of when you may need to stop. Remind your children to use soft voices and refrain from rambunctious behavior so you can focus on driving.
These steps might improve your peace of mind knowing that you have done everything in your power to protect your children. Teaching them respectful driving behavior can also improve your focus so you can do your best to drive safely and respond to road hazards with control.