Back To School | Car Safety

Back-to-School Car Safety

Get the Facts

Every year, thousands of young children are killed or badly injured in crashes,
mainly because three out of every four children in child safety seats are not
properly secured, or even worse, not restrained at all.

Confused About How to Use it Right?

In too many instances, parents are confused about how to correctly install
their child's seat; they don't know that every seat doesn't fit in every car; or
they don't realize their vehicles are equipped with a system called the Lower
Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).

LATCH – Easier to Get it Right

NHTSA is here to help. Nearly every car seat and most vehicles manufactured since 2002 are required to have the LATCH system. LATCH makes it easier to get the child seat in right – the first time and every time.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Child

We know that as a parent or caregiver, you do everything in your power to protect your children. Here’s all the information you need to understand and use the LATCH system correctly and safeguard your child. Always follow the installation instructions provided by your car seat manufacturer and your vehicle owner's manual.

Resources for Parents

New Car Seat Recommendations for Children

Here’s how to select and secure the right car seat (PDF 1.16 MB) based on your child’s age and size.

Tips to Increase Your Child’s Car Seat Safety

Explore these car seat tips and discover everything from ease-of-use ratings to instructional videos.

Child Passenger Safety Laws

Learn about child passenger safety laws by state, including passenger restraint requirements.

Beyond Booster Seats

The transition from booster seat to a seat belt is a great opportunity to teach the right messages about safety. Here are some good pointers.

Resources for Children

Learn the Rules

Car safety rules tip sheet for kids (PDF 549.05).