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Parents and Caregivers Urged To Keep Kids Safe in Vehicles

By Mark Buckles Sep 10, 2024 | 6:22 PM

September 15 through September 21 is National Child Passenger Safety Week. Kentucky parents and caregivers should know the importance of correctly buckling kids in the right seats for their age and size during National Child Passenger Safety Week. This annual awareness campaign aims to make Kentucky highways safer by encouraging practices to safeguard some of the most vulnerable passengers.

“Our children are our most precious cargo, and as a dad, I know parents and caregivers want to do all they can to keep their kids safe,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Simple practices like checking to make sure your kids are in the right seats and are buckled up every trip is a small step that can make a big difference.”

Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children, and the latest research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration  shows that 46% of car seats are misused. Common issues are children being in the wrong type of car seat for their age and size and car seats being installed improperly — both of which leave children vulnerable to injury in a crash.

“It’s common for parents to assume their kids are safe in the car, but many don’t know the full risks,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “Our focus is on providing caregivers with the right information and resources to help them make the best decisions for their children’s safety.”