Defective & Unsafe Car Seats

Cincinnati Defective and unsafe Car Seat Lawyers

We Fight for Parents of Children Injured by Defective Car Seats in Ohio

Car seats are specifically designed to protect children in the event of a car accident or sudden stop. When they are used correctly and are in good condition, they can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death. However, when car seats are defective or used incorrectly, they can pose serious dangers and increase the risk of injury to children.

Common Defects that Make Some Car Seats Unsafe

Inadequate Protection

A defective car seat may not provide the necessary support and protection to a child during a crash. This can result in the child experiencing greater impact forces, leading to severe injuries or even death.

Faulty Restraint Systems

Defective car seats may have issues with their restraint systems, such as malfunctioning buckles, straps or harnesses. This can cause the child to not be properly secured, increasing the risk of injury in an accident.

Weak Structural Integrity

A defective car seat may have compromised structural integrity due to manufacturing errors or low-quality materials. A child secured in a car seat or with straps that can’t withstand crash forces is far more likely to suffer serious injuries in a crash.

Flammable or Toxic Materials

Some defective car seats may contain flammable or toxic materials, which can pose additional risks to the child in case of a fire. Children may spend hundreds of cumulative hours in a car seat, potentially subjecting them to prolonged exposure to dangerous materials if they’re present in the car seat’s padding or molded plastic.

Incorrect Installation

The car seat itself is not the only potential danger. A car seat may not fit properly in the vehicle or may have unclear or incorrect installation instructions, leading to improper installation. This can compromise the seat’s ability to protect the child in a crash.

Recalls and Lack of Information

Sometimes, defective car seats are recalled by manufacturers, but not all parents or caregivers may be aware of these recalls. Continued use of a recalled car seat can put a child at risk.

It’s important for parents and caregivers to ensure that their car seats are in good condition, properly installed, and used correctly. They should also stay informed about recalls and safety updates to minimize the risk of injury to their children.

What Should Parents do if Their Child Was Injured Because of a Defective Car Seat

1. The first priority is to ensure the child receives appropriate medical care for their injuries.
2. Take photos of the car seat, vehicle and the scene of the accident. Write down details about the incident, including the date, time and location as well as a description of the injuries your child sustained.
3. Keep the car seat, as well as any packaging, instructions and receipts (if available). Do not modify, repair or dispose of the car seat as it may be needed as evidence in a potential legal case.
4. Notify the car seat manufacturer and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about the incident. This helps track and identify potential defects and may lead to a recall or safety investigation.
5. If your child has been injured due to a defective car seat, it may be appropriate to seek legal counsel. A Cincinnati product liability attorney at the Buckeye Law Group can help you understand your rights and determine if you have a valid claim against the manufacturer, distributor or retailer of the car seat.
6. Collect any relevant medical records, bills and receipts related to your child’s injury. These documents may be needed as evidence to support a potential legal claim.