7 Safety Tips to Keep Your Children Safe In the Car

The safety and well-being of your children are the most important things when it comes to driving with them in your car. Whether you are taking a short trip or going on a long road trip, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your children stay safe and secure while traveling. 

November is National Child Safety and Protection Month, and Acceptance Insurance wants to help make sure your children are as safe as can be in the car. Here are seven useful car safety tips for parents: 

1. Always Ensure They Are Buckled In

Whether they are wearing a seat belt or using a car seat, it is essential that your child is properly secured whenever traveling in the car. This is especially true if they are not tall enough to reach the seat belt on their own. If you are driving with a child under the age of 13 who does not fit safely in an adult seat belt, he or she should always be secured in a car safety seat. 

2. Avoid Distractions While Driving

When you are focused on the road, you are better able to spot potential dangers and react quickly to them. If you have your eyes or attention on your phone or another passenger while driving, you may not be as aware of potential issues like a car pulling out in front of you or a child running into the street. Distracted driving can also cause you to make driving mistakes and put those in your vehicle and the surrounding area in danger. 

3. Make Sure Kids Are In The Back Seat

A child who does not meet the height or weight requirements for an adult seat belt or passenger airbag should always be secured in a backseat. If they fit the seat belts but still cannot activate the front airbags, they should sit in the backseat but do not require a carseat. Sitting in the back seats of the car will help protect your child from injury in the event of an accident and is a traffic law in most states. Be sure to familiarize yourself with your state’s child passenger safety laws. 

4. Plan Out Your Route In Advance

To reduce stress levels while driving, it is important to plan out your route ahead of time and leave with plenty of time to get to your destination. This will help ensure that you don’t get lost or have to make any unexpected stops, which can cause an unsafe distraction while driving. It also helps save time and reduce the risk of getting frustrated behind the wheel.

5. Keep An Eye Out For Other Drivers

Other drivers who may be distracted or aggressive can be a danger to everyone on the road. If you notice that a driver is aggressively tailgating or making aggressive maneuvers, make sure to leave plenty of space between your vehicle and theirs. If possible, try to avoid these drivers and find an alternate route.

6. Ensure That Your Car Is Properly Maintained

Maintaining your car is not only important for the safety of you and your passengers, but it’s also the law. By regularly performing a few routine maintenance tasks, you can be certain your car is kept in the best shape. These tasks include checking fluid levels, changing the oil, and rotating the tires. You should also make sure that the brakes are working properly and that all of your lights are functioning correctly.

If you do find yourself broken down on the side of the road, tools like jumper cables or a car jack are always helpful to keep with you. Roadside assistance or other service plans can also be a good investment, in case you are ever stranded with car troubles.

7. Practice Safe Driving Habits Yourself

Children learn by watching the adults around them. If you want your kids to be safe in the car, it is important to set a good example for them and practice safe driving habits yourself. Make sure to buckle up every time you get in the car, avoid distractions while driving, and uphold rules inside the car to remind them how to behave while you’re driving. If you follow these simple tips, your children will be more likely to do the same when they are behind the wheel.

Feel Safer With Acceptance Insurance

At Acceptance Insurance, we want to make sure you have the coverage you need to feel safe while driving. We offer a variety of policies that may meet your needs, and our agents are here to help you find the right one for you. We understand that accidents can happen at any time, so we offer a variety of coverage options to help protect you and your loved ones. Explore our website and get a free, no-hassle insurance quote to learn more about our plans and which one is right for you.

Common Questions About Car Safety for Parents

How Often Should I Replace My Car Seat?

Most car seats have a lifespan of six years. After that, the car seat may not be as effective in a crash. Parents should also replace car seats if they were in a crash, even if they don’t appear to be damaged.

What Are Some Tips For Staying Safe While Driving?

When it comes to safety while driving, it is important to be prepared for any situation. Always make sure to buckle up, avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone or eating, and uphold rules inside the car to remind your children how to behave. If you follow these simple tips, you and your family will be safer while driving.

What Should You Do If You Get Into A Car Accident?

If you get into a car accident, it is important to stay calm and take action. First, make sure that everyone in the car is OK. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and only allow paramedics to move patients. Once you have checked on everyone’s safety, it is time to start dealing with the aftermath of the accident.

If the cars are still drivable, move them to the side of the road so they are not blocking traffic. Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident, and take pictures of the scene if possible. Do not admit fault or apologize for anything at this point. Once you have taken all of these steps, contact your insurance company as soon as possible and report the accident.

How Does Acceptance Help Protect Drivers?

At Acceptance Insurance, we are committed to helping drivers stay safe on the road. We offer a variety of insurance policies that may meet your needs and keep you protected in the event of a car accident. Whether you need basic auto insurance or something more comprehensive, we can help find the right plan for you.

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