If you have been in a major or moderate car crash, it is essential to replace your car seat. Many people don't know this, but if you have been in an auto accident, the car seat inside may be damaged even if the car seems fine.
Most car seats are not designed to withstand more than one major crash. If you continue to use a seat that has been in an accident, you are putting yourself and your family at risk. Only in a very minor accident is replacing a car seat not a must.
Read on to learn more about the importance of car seat replacement after a car accident and some useful tips on doing it safely. We will also define a minor crash to help you determine whether you need to replace your car seat in the first place.
What Is a Minor Car Crash?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a minor crash doesn’t automatically mean you will need to replace your car seat. You can tell if you had a minor crash by observing the following:
- Were you able to drive your vehicle from the crash site?
- Were none of the passengers injured in the crash?
- Was there no visible damage to your car?
- Did the airbags not deploy?
- Was the door closest to the car seat not damaged?
If you can answer these questions affirmatively, you don't need to replace your car seat.
Importance of Car Seat Replacement After Accident
There are many reasons why replacing a car seat is essential.
- It ensures your and your family's safety.
- It can help prevent further damage to your vehicle.
- Car seat replacement after an accident can help keep your insurance rates low.
- Replacing a car seat is required by law in some states.
How To Replace Your Car Seat Safely
When replacing your car seat, it's essential to do so safely. Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Make sure the new seat is compatible with your vehicle and that it has all the necessary parts.
- Follow the instructions for the new seat to install it properly.
- Make sure you read and understand the user manual before using the new seat.
- Always use a seat belt or a latch to secure the new car seat.
- Have the new seat inspected by a certified child passenger safety technician.
Will My Insurance Cover Car Seat Replacement After Accident
Once you’ve determined that you need to replace your car seat, you might be wondering whether your insurance will cover the cost. Well, in most cases, yes. However, it is always best to check with your insurance company to be sure. If you are filing a claim, the cost of a replacement car seat may be included in the compensation you seek for damages.
What to Do If Your Child Is In a Car Accident
If your child is in a car accident, it’s in everyone’s best interest to contact a car accident attorney about your case. You may be entitled to compensation for you and your child’s medical bills, lost wages if you had to miss work to care for your child as well as intangible damages like your child’s mental anguish coping with the aftermath of the accident and their injuries. In cases of severe injuries, compensation could include an award to the future needs of your child.
An experienced car accident attorney is essential to maximize your compensation from damages. Most personal injury lawyers who specialize in vehicle accidents handle cases on a contingency basis, meaning that they will not charge you out-of-pocket, but will take a percentage of any recovery they obtain for you. And, a car accident attorney has a wealth of experience negotiating with insurance companies and bolstering your case with evidence from law enforcement, doctors, and others.
Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, Highly Rated Car Accident Lawyers
If you or your child has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait, contact us today for a free consultation. With our proven track record of success and our commitment to client care, we can get you the justice you deserve.
Our compassionate attorneys pride themselves on commitment to client care and aggressive representation. You and your family deserve the maximum compensation for all you lost.