Observed child restraint misuse in a large, urban community: Results from three years of inspection events

• 96.2% of inspected child restraints were installed incorrectly.
• Restraints in older cars were more likely to be installed in front of an airbag.
• Restraints in newer cars were more likely to have the seatbelt routed incorrectly.
• Older children were more likely to be prematurely restrained in the front seat.
• Child age and weight were positively associated with errors in lower anchor use.

ProblemChild restraints (CRs) are vital for optimizing child passenger safety and reducing the risk of pediatric injury and fatality in motor vehicle crashes. However, most CRs are installed improperly.MethodsThis present study was an assessment of observed instances of CR misuse. Participants were recruited through advertisements for CR inspection events in Los Angeles County, California. Child Passenger Safety Technicians collected information about each child passenger, vehicle, and aspects of CR selection and installation.ResultsOf 693 CRs installed upon arrival, only 3.8% were used with no instances of misuse. The most common misuses were inappropriate use of the top tether and failure to secure the seatbelt in locked mode.ConclusionsThe majority of observed CRs were installed with instances of misuse. CRs in newer vehicles were less likely to be installed in front of airbags and more likely to have the seatbelt routed inappropriately compared to those in older vehicles. Older children were more likely to be prematurely restrained in the front vehicle seat.Practical ApplicationsThe majority of CRs are installed improperly. We identified specific instances of CR misuse that are common in a large, urban community and present recommendations to improve child passenger safety practices and education.