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December 19, 2025
Motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of injury and death for children, but using the right car seat properly can make a life-saving difference. According to safety data, a properly used child safety seat can drastically reduce a child’s risk of death in a crash, especially for infants and toddlers. From the moment a newborn heads home from the hospital, caregivers should have an age and size appropriate seat ready, and always secure every child in the back seat, which remains the safest place up through age 12.
Choosing the correct type of seat is an important first step. Rear-facing car seats offer the best protection for infants and should be used as long as possible within the seat’s height and weight limits before transitioning to a forward-facing seat with a harness, and later to a booster that helps a growing child use the vehicle’s seat belt correctly. Each stage has specific requirements tied to a child’s development, and moving up too soon can compromise safety.
Proper installation and consistent use make all the difference. Always follow the car seat manufacturer’s instructions and those in your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure a secure fit, and consider local resources like fire stations or certified technicians who can help check your installation. Be sure to register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive recall updates, and never place a child on an adult’s lap, even for short trips, as the force of a crash can be devastating. With thoughtful selection, careful installation, and everyday use, you can significantly increase your child’s safety on the road and protect what matters most.
Learn more about the specifics of car seat safety in out health information library here.
Read more safety tips and about common fractures here.
Stay safe on your holiday journeys!
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Knowing When to Seek Care for Your Child: A Guide from LuskinOIC
As a parent, your top priority is keeping your child safe and healthy. But when your child is sick or injured, it can be hard to know what level of care they need. Should you call your pediatrician, visit urgent care, or head straight to the emergency department?
For non-emergencies, your child’s pediatrician or a pediatric urgent care center is often the best place to start. If your child’s doctor isn’t available—such as during evenings or weekends—urgent care can provide fast, effective treatment. Contact your pediatrician or visit urgent care if your child has:
You may also have access to virtual urgent care for non-emergency issues, allowing your child to be seen by a provider from home. Check if pediatric virtual urgent care services are available in your area.
If your child is seriously injured or ill—especially if the condition may be life-threatening or needs immediate attention—take them to the emergency department (ED). Seek emergency care if your child:
Your child’s health matters. When in doubt, trust your instincts—and don’t hesitate to seek care. LuskinOIC is here to support your family with trusted pediatric expertise every step of the way.