Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released new recommendations about car seats that every Alpharetta parent should know. The new policy, described in the April 2011 issue of Pediatrics, is different than the current Georgia car seat laws and based on new research results.

The AAP Now Suggests that Children Stay in Rear-Facing Car Seats Until Age Two, or Until They Reach the Maximum Height and Weight Requirements for Their Seats.

In 2002, the last time car seat guidelines were issued by the AAP, the organization suggested that infants stay rear-facing until age one and 20 pounds. Dr. Dennis Dubin, the lead author of the 2011 AAP car seat policy statement explained the change by saying, "A rear-facing child safety seat does a better job of supporting the head, neck and spine of infants and toddlers in a crash, because it distributes the force of the collision over the entire body." Another study published in a 2007 issue of Injury Prevention found that rear-facing children under two are 75% less likely to die in a car crash.

The AAP Recommendations Have Also Changed for Older Children


The AAP recommendations have also changed for children over age two. According to the new recommendations, children should stay in booster seats until they are four foot nine inches tall and between the ages of 8-12. Additionally, children under age 13 should always ride in the backseat.

Contact an Alpharetta Accident Lawyer if Your Child Has Been Hurt in a Crash

These guidelines are meant to protect children who are involved in car accidents. While car seats undoubtedly save lives and prevent serious injuries, they are not 100% effective, even with the new guidelines.

If your child has been hurt in an Alpharetta accident, then it is important to contact an Alpharetta car crash attorney as soon as possible after the accident. You can reach an experienced lawyer today by calling 1.770.518.1133. Together, we will work hard to get your child the recovery that your child deserves.

*Source: AAP Updated Recommendation on Car Seats, Press Release, March 21, 2011