As a new parent, safety is obviously your top concern. There\nare many potential dangers when driving with a baby, and there is plenty of\nconflicting information about best practices. Here are some tips to keep your\nbaby safe in the car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Research the features of various car seat brands and models\nbefore you make a choice. Check safety ratings and read articles and comments\nin online parenting forums to find out if other parents have experienced any\nproblems with a particular car seat. Make sure the seat you choose is\nappropriate for your baby\u2019s weight and will continue to work as your child\ngrows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be sure the car seat will fit properly in your vehicle.\nSome don\u2019t fit right in all cars. Position the car seat so it is facing the\nrear of the vehicle and keep it in that position until your child reaches the\nmaximum height or weight for the car seat. Secure the straps at the correct\nheight. If the straps are too high, too low, or too loose, the baby may move\ntoo much in an accident and suffer serious injuries. Many local police and fire\ndepartments will check your car seat at no charge to make sure it is properly\ninstalled and answer questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Register your car seat so you will be notified promptly if\nthe company issues a recall. Car seats have an expiration date because some\nmaterials, such as plastic and Styrofoam, can crack with time. Replace your car\nseat if it has expired or if you see any cracks or defects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unusual noises or sudden periods of silence may or may not\nbe cause for concern. Get a backseat mirror so you can keep an eye on your baby\nwhile driving. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you and your baby are involved in a car accident, toys and\nbottles can become dangerous projectiles, and food can become a choking hazard.\nDon\u2019t give your baby any toys that could cause injuries in an accident. Feed\nyour baby before you leave and stop somewhere if your baby gets hungry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you are ever involved in a car accident while the car\nseat is in the vehicle, replace it, even if your baby was not in the car at the\ntime and even if the car seat appears fine. There may be damage you can\u2019t see.\nIn many cases, car insurance will pay to replace a car seat if it was in a\nvehicle at the time of an accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition to following these safety tips, having the\nright insurance coverage can give you peace of mind. If you need auto\ninsurance<\/a>, Petruzelo Insurance can help you compare quotes from\nseveral major carriers to choose the coverage that matches your needs and\nbudget. <\/p>\n\n\n\n