New crash tests raise questions about booster seat safety

Posted by Benji Riggins on January 12, 2010 under Safety | Be the First to Comment

New crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety are raising questions about the safety of child booster seats.

After the tests, only 25 percent of the booster seats got a “good” or “best” rating from the Insurance Institute. Eleven booster seats are not recommended because the belts don’t provide a good fit.

Officials said children 4-8 years old in booster seats are 45 percent less likely to suffer serious injuries in accidents.

However, even kids in booster seats who aren’t properly belted in are at risk. Seat belts that cross the stomach can cause abdominal injuries. Plus, belts that cross the neck or are too low on the chest can cause spine and head injuries.

Twenty five states have laws requiring a booster until the age of eight. Three states — Florida, Arizona and South Dakota — don’t require booster seats at all.

Crash tests show seat belts alone do not protect a child, which is why safety experts say even booster seats that don’t get the top safety recommendation can still protect kids.

Officials said age is not the most important factor. It’s actually based more on the child’s height and how well they fit into adult seat belts.