Do Parents Choose Appropriate Automotive Restraint Devices for Their Children?

Abstract

This study aims to describe parental choices of childhood automotive restraints and compare them with guidelines based on weight and height. Parents were surveyed and their children's heights and weight were measured. Results indicated that many parents believed their child fit a lap or shoulder belt when their children were too short to fit these devices. For children weighing <40 pounds, 45% of parents believed the lap belt fit. Thirteen percent of 4-7-year-olds used booster seats, appropriate for 72% by sitting height criteria; and 33% of children <7 years used the lap/shoulder belt, appropriate for 8% by sitting height criteria. Implications are that parental perceptions of fit may lead to inappropriate restraint choices for children. Practitioners should discuss child restraint use with parents in the context of their child's weight and height.

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