How to Prevent Child Injuries in an Auto Accident

Keeping our children safe is always a top priority, but many parents don’t realize how easily a small mistake can put kids at risk in the car. Even the safest drivers can run into unexpected hazards, such as negligent drivers, bad weather, or sudden stops.

At BANA LAW, we understand that parents want peace of mind. Below, we share practical ways to reduce the chances of a child being hurt in an auto accident. We also touch on what your legal options are if a child does get injured.

Why Is Child Passenger Safety So Important?

Children are smaller and more fragile than adults, which makes them more vulnerable to injuries in a collision. Their bones and muscles haven’t fully developed, and they can’t brace themselves as effectively in a sudden stop. Even a fender-bender can result in serious injuries like whiplash, broken bones, and head trauma when a child isn’t properly secured.

According to California courts, kids injured in car accidents can pursue a personal injury claim just like adults. For instance, in Dorel Industries, Inc. v. Superior Court (134 Cal. App. 4th 1267), a four-year-old child was able to bring a claim against the manufacturer of a booster seat alleged to be defective.

What Is the Safest Way for Children to Ride in a Vehicle?

In California, children must ride in age-appropriate car seats or boosters until they are at least 8 years old or 4 feet 9 inches tall. Follow the car seat manufacturer’s guidelines on weight and height limits.

Younger kids should ride in the back seat—especially if they’re under 13. Airbags, while lifesaving for adults, can be dangerous to a small child if deployed. Using the correct restraint system is key to keeping them safe in the event of a crash.

Could the Car Seat Itself Be Defective?

Yes. If a car seat or booster is made with faulty materials or a poor design, it may fail during an accident.

If a child is harmed because the seat malfunctioned, the manufacturer or distributor could be held responsible. It’s always wise to check for product recalls or safety complaints before purchasing a car seat.

Are There Laws Protecting Injured Children in Auto Accidents?

Absolutely. Under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 376, parents can file a lawsuit for harm caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. In California, while parents have the right to seek damages for medical expenses they pay on behalf of their child, a child’s separate claim covers damages for the child’s pain, suffering, and any long-term effects.

Courts emphasize that a child’s injuries—and their compensation—belong to them, not their parents. As stated in California Damages: Law and Proof § 3.4, general damages for a minor’s pain and suffering are recoverable by the minor.

How Else Can You Boost Child Safety on the Road?

Below is a list of tips to reduce the risk of child injuries in car accidents:

• Pick the Right Car Seat Every Time: Check your child’s height and weight, review the car seat guidelines, and replace a seat if it’s damaged or outdated.
• Install It Correctly: Follow the manufacturer’s manual. A loose seat can’t do its job. Many local police or fire stations offer free installation checks.
• Seat Belts for Older Kids: If your child has outgrown a booster, ensure they use seat belts correctly—lap belt on hips, not stomach, and shoulder belt across the chest.
• Keep Kids in the Back: Airbags are made for adults, so children under 13 should ride in the rear seat.
• Never Leave Your Child Unattended: Even a parked car can be dangerous, especially in extreme weather.

How Do You Know If You Have a Case?

Say you did everything right—bought a proper seat, installed it correctly, and still, your child was hurt in a crash. If another driver caused the accident, you can pursue a claim. Or, if a product turns out to be defective, the manufacturer might be responsible. An attorney can gather evidence—like crash reports, witness statements, or product details—to show who’s liable.

It’s also important to note that California law does not recognize the loss of parent-child consortium. In Tullai v. Homan (195 Cal. App. 3d 1184), the court clarified that a parent cannot claim damages for losing a child’s companionship due to an injury. However, the child’s own losses—like medical bills, pain, and suffering—are still valid claims.

Why Does Injury Severity Matter in Child Car Accident Cases?

The severity of a child’s injuries often determines the amount of compensation sought. Serious injuries, such as brain trauma or spinal cord damage, may require lifelong care. Medical treatments might include surgeries, rehabilitation, and specialized therapies. A child might also need assistive devices like walkers or wheelchairs if the damage is permanent.

By filing a personal injury claim, you can seek funds to cover current and future costs. That’s crucial to helping your child recover without the added stress of financial burdens.

How Do You Handle Insurance and Medical Bills After a Crash?

The last thing parents want to worry about after a crash is how to pay the bills. That’s where an experienced lawyer can help. By working with insurance companies on your behalf, our California car accident attorneys at BANA LAW can seek a settlement that covers ambulance costs, hospital stays, follow-up treatments, and physical therapy.

If the insurance company drags its feet or offers a low settlement, we can press for more evidence or even take the case to court. We focus on the legal battle so you can focus on your child’s recovery.

Call BANA LAW if Your Child Has Been Hurt in a Car Accident

If your child has been hurt in a car accident, you have every right to seek fair compensation. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on caring for your child. Contact BANA LAW online or call 855-997-6599 for a free consultation, and let’s begin the process of helping your family move forward. Your child’s future matters, and our California car accident attorneys are here to stand by your side.