Car Seat Safety: What Every Parent Needs to Know
Every parent wants to ensure their child’s safety, especially on the road. Car seats are a crucial aspect of keeping your little ones safe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that child safety seats can reduce the risk of death by as much as 71%. However, many families are unaware of the best practices for car seat safety, leading to preventable injuries and fatalities.
Let’s change that. In this article, you’ll learn about types of car seats and 11 important tips for improving your child’s safety every time you buckle them up for a ride.
Types of car seats
Different types of car seats are designed to accommodate children of various ages and sizes, ensuring optimal protection in the event of a crash. Here are some of the available options:
Rear-facing car seats
Rear-facing car seats are designed for infants and young toddlers, providing crucial support for their developing neck and spine in the event of a collision. According to the NHTSA, it is recommended to use a rear-facing car seat from birth until at least the age of three, or until the child reaches the maximum height and weight limit specified by the car seat manufacturer. There are three main types of rear-facing car seats: infant (rear-facing only), convertible, and all-in-one.
• Infant (Rear-facing only): These seats are specifically designed for newborns and small infants. They can be portable, featuring a handle that allows parents to carry their baby easily without disturbing their sleep. Once a child outgrows the infant car seat, typically before their first birthday, parents should transition to a convertible or all-in-one car seat used in the rear-facing position.
• Convertible: Convertible car seats can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing configurations, adapting as the child grows. Initially used as rear-facing seats for infants and toddlers, they can later be converted to forward-facing seats with a harness. Convertible car seats generally support children in the rear-facing position, enabling extended rear-facing use for enhanced safety.
• All-in-one: All-in-one car seats are versatile and can be used in three configurations: rear-facing, forward-facing, and as a booster seat. In the rear-facing mode, they are designed to grow with the child, offering a long-term, cost-effective solution for parents by transitioning through all stages of car seat use.
Pro-tip: Many parents are under the impression that rear-facing car seats are uncomfortable for children, particularly once they’re past the newborn phase. This leads them to prematurely switch to a front-facing position. But think of it this way — how does it feel when you’re sitting in a chair where your feet can’t touch the floor? Comfortable? No. Rear-facing seats allow infants and young toddlers to place their feet comfortably and are safest for children under certain weights.
Forward-facing car seat
Once children outgrow their rear-facing car seats, they should transition to a forward-facing car seat to continue their safety on the road. According to the NHTSA, children should use a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether from the age of (roughly) three until around 4-7 years old, or until they reach the seat's maximum height and weight limits. Remember: Don’t transition your child to a forward-facing car seat until they’ve hit the appropriate weight, no matter their age.
There are three main types of forward-facing car seats: convertible, combination, and all-in-one.
• Convertible Car Seats: These seats, initially used as rear-facing car seats for infants, can be converted to forward-facing seats as the child grows. Convertible car seats are equipped with a harness and tether for added security, and they are suitable for children until they outgrow the height and weight limits specified for the forward-facing mode.
• Combination Car Seats: As a child grows, the harness can be removed, and the seat can be used as a booster seat with the car's seat belt. This type of seat is ideal for children who have outgrown their rear-facing seat and need a secure forward-facing option before transitioning to a booster.
• All-in-One Car Seats: All-in-one car seats can be used in rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seat modes. When used as forward-facing seats, they provide the necessary harness and tether for safety. They’re also great for parents on a budget who don’t want to buy three separate car seats as their child grows.
Booster seat
As your children age, they will eventually outgrow their forward-facing car seats but still need the additional height and positioning provided by a booster seat. According to the NHTSA, children should transition to a booster seat when they exceed the height and weight limits of their forward-facing car seat. This typically occurs between the ages of 8-12. There are different types of booster seats: high-back, backless, combination, and all-in-one.
• Booster Seat with High Back: High-back booster seats provide head and neck support and are ideal for vehicles with low seat backs or no headrests. They help position the vehicle's seat belt correctly across the child's shoulder and chest, for maximum safety and comfort.
• Backless Booster Seat: Backless booster seats are designed for vehicles with high seat backs or headrests. They raise the child to ensure the seat belt fits properly across the shoulder and lap. Backless boosters are often more portable and easier to transfer between vehicles.
• Combination Seats: Combination seats serve as both forward-facing seats with a harness and booster seats. When the child outgrows the harness, the seat can be used as a booster with the vehicle’s seat belt. This type of seat is a good transitional option, providing extended use as the child grows.
• All-in-One Car Seats: All-in-one car seats offer the versatility of transitioning from a rear-facing seat to a forward-facing seat and finally to a booster seat. When used as a booster, they ensure the vehicle's seat belt fits correctly over the child’s shoulder and lap.
Seat belt
Once children outgrow their booster seats, they should transition to using the vehicle’s seat belt. According to the NHTSA, children are generally ready to use a seat belt without a booster seat when they reach a height of approximately 4 feet 9 inches. Note that many center rear-seat positions don’t have the same cushion depth as outboard seats and a small cushion or pillow may improve belt fit and comfort.
Proper seat belt fit is crucial for safety: the lap belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach, and the shoulder belt should lie across the shoulder and chest, not the neck or face. Even when children transition to using a seat belt, they should still ride in the back seat.
11 car seat safety tips
No matter the type of car seat, there are essential safety tips every parent should know to ensure their child is as safe as possible while traveling. Keep these in mind to ensure a secure and comfortable ride for your little one.
1. Select a car seat based on your child’s age and size
Car seats are designed with certain weights and dimensions in mind, so selecting the right one for your child's age and size is crucial. Ensuring proper fit provides the best protection in case of a crash. Always adhere to both the manufacturer's guidelines and the recommendations provided by the NHTSA.
2. Choose a LATCH system or seat belt
When installing a car seat, you can use either the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), the seat belt, or both. You should choose one method and not both unless the car seat and vehicle manufacturer specifically say it’s okay to use both simultaneously.
3. Install the car seat correctly
Proper installation of the car seat is vital for your child’s safety. Resources like car seat installation videos, manufacturer instructions, and help from certified car seat technicians (often available through auto clubs, fire stations, or law enforcement agencies) can ensure you install the car seat correctly. For detailed guidance, you can visit the NHTSA website.
4. Remove bulky clothing layers
If you strap your child into their car seat while wearing bulky clothing (like winter jackets), it can make the car seat much less effective. For example, in the event of a crash, the padding in a coat can compress, creating extra space under the harness, which may allow the child to slip through the straps and be thrown from the seat. The extra bulk can also compress the straps, adding slack to the harness system.
Remove your child’s layers before strapping them into a seat and/or place a blanket over your children once they are securely strapped in. Alternatively, if you live in an area with weather that necessitates that you regularly wear bulky winter clothes, you may way want to invest in car seat-friendly jackets that are made to facilitate keeping your child warm without compromising safety.
5. Register your car seat
Registering your car seat with the manufacturer ensures you receive important safety updates and recall notices. You can typically register your car seat online or by mailing in the registration card that comes with it.
6. Get your car seat inspected
Certified technicians can inspect your car seat to confirm it’s properly installed and provide guidance on how to adjust it if necessary. This helps prevent common installation mistakes that could compromise your child's safety in a crash. To get your car seat inspected, visit a local inspection station, such as those found at fire stations, health departments, or community events. You can find a nearby inspection station using resources on the NHTSA website.
7. Use a properly fitted harness
Properly adjusted harnesses ensure your car seat is providing the best protection possible. Harness straps should be in the slots at or below your baby’s shoulders in rear-facing seats and at or above the shoulders in forward-facing seats. The chest clip should be at the armpit level. The harness must be snug so you cannot pinch a fold in the harness material after buckling in your child.
8. Avoid buying used seats, particularly if the seat’s history is unknown.
Buying a used car seat can be risky if you don’t know its complete history and is generally not recommended. A seat that appears to be in good condition may have unseen damage or wear that compromises its safety. Additionally, used car seats might not meet current safety standards, as regulations and technologies are ever-evolving.
If a car seat has been involved in a crash, even a minor one, its structural integrity could be compromised, making it unsafe for future use. Moreover, used car seats may be missing important parts or have expired, as car seats typically have a lifespan of six to ten years.
9. Don’t use a visibly broken car seat or one with missing parts
Using a car seat that is visibly damaged, or missing parts can be extremely dangerous. Even minor damage can compromise the car seat’s ability to protect your child in a crash. Cracks, frayed straps, or broken buckles can reduce the effectiveness of the car seat, putting your child at risk. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines, cleaning instructions, and safety information to ensure your car seat is in good condition, and make sure that the car seat comes with instructions.
10. Know when it’s time to upgrade your car seat
Children grow quickly, and it’s essential to monitor when they outgrow their car seats. Check the car seat label for height, weight, and age limits to ensure your child still fits within the recommended range. Additionally, if your child’s head nears the top of the seat, it’s most likely time to upgrade.
11. Always place a child’s car seat in the back seat and check the airbags
Due to the risk of injury from passenger-side front airbags in the event of a crash, it's crucial to always place a child's car seat in the back seat. This location minimizes the risk of harm, ensuring that your child is safer in case of a crash. If your vehicle has rear side-impact airbags and you need a baby seat next to it, check your owner's manual for recommended car seat installation positions, or ask your service advisor or the manufacturer’s customer service line if you have any questions.
The Mazda commitment to safety
At Mazda, we understand the importance of safety on the road, especially when it comes to protecting your most precious cargo — your children. If you're not sure what safety features to consider in a car , rest assured that every Mazda vehicle is built with these considerations in mind, incorporating advanced safety technologies designed to help provide confidence for all passengers.
For Mazda owners, detailed instructions for installing child restraint systems can be found in your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual, ensuring that your car seat is securely and correctly installed.
Shop family-friendly Mazda crossovers and SUVs
Mazda offers a range of family-friendly crossovers and SUVs that prioritize safety, comfort, and convenience. If you're wondering about must-have car features for families, here are a few standout Mazda models, each recognized for their exceptional safety ratings and family-oriented features:
Mazda CX-90: For those seeking a larger vehicle, the CX-90 offers three-row seating, providing ample space for large families or groups. This SUV combines utility with luxury, offering advanced safety technologies and a premium driving experience. Both CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV models have earned a 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, making it one of the smartest choices for taking your family around town.
Most Mazda vehicles also have “Good+” LATCH ratings from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), bringing that added extra security for children in the back seat.
Ready to find the best SUV for your family? Explore the Mazda lineup of family-friendly crossovers and SUVs today. Schedule a test drive to experience the performance, comfort, and safety that make Mazda vehicles stand out, or visit your local Mazda Dealer to speak with someone who can assist you in finding the perfect SUV to suit your family's needs and preferences.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the latest competitive information available at the time of posting. Information herein is subject to change without notice and without Mazda incurring any obligations. Please review a variety of resources prior to making a purchasing decision. Visit Resource Center for more articles.