Safety Practices with Children in Autos: Observations of Inadequate Behaviors

Abstract

The safety of children in automobile accidents is a national concern. The number of injuries and deaths occurring to young children in automobile accidents is considered to be excessive. Previous surveys have indicated that many individuals are not familiar with some of the procedures and devices associated with safety for young children in that they cannot describe the appropriate locations for children of various ages and sizes. The present study involved observations of children in vehicles as they approached elementary schools. The results of the observations indicate that the surveys are likely correct in showing poor understanding of the necessity for locating children safely and using safety devices appropriately. Further, the data indicate that some of the unsafe practices used with children are associated with parents or caregivers unsafe practices.