How can I ensure my child is safe while driving?

Driving in Houston is stressful enough on its own. Driving with kids can be even more harrowing, especially when it comes to distractions and other issues. You want to rest assured that your child is safe and secure within a vehicle whether you’re driving across town or across the country. That’s why Consumer Reports offers the following safe driving tips for when your kids are in tow. 

Car seats are a must for small children. To find an appropriate car seat, you must consider your child’s weight and height as opposed to his or her age. You must also ensure that the car seat is installed correctly for maximum protection. If you’re unsure, look for local help in the form of a car seat technician, who will show you how to install the seat into your vehicle in the correct manner. Also, be aware of safety ratings when purchasing a car seat. As your child grows older, you’ll need to change car seats or transition to a booster seat. 

All kids under the age of 12 should sit in the back of the vehicle, whether they need a car seat or not. In this case, it’s crucial that you clean out any loose items in the back seat in the event of a crash. During an accident, seemingly harmless items in the vehicle become projectiles, which can do quite a bit of damage even if a child is secured within a car seat. In the same token, drivers and all passengers must wear their seatbelts at all times, even if you’re only going on a short trip.

Lastly, make sure your driving habits are as safe as they can be. Texting while driving is dangerous, but unfortunately, many drivers participate in the behavior. Set a good example for your kids by never driving distracted. Don’t compose or answer texts, eat while driving, or do anything else that pulls your attention away from the road. If your children need attention while driving, only do so when the vehicle is safely stopped and out of the way of traffic.