Today’s world is full of distractions, and most parents are carrying heavy loads every day. This can make driving dangerous.
Motor vehicle crashes remain one of the leading causes of death for children in the United States. Every trip is an opportunity to model safe driving habits and protect the people who matter most.
So here are some keys that every driver should know to keep your kids safe on the road.
1. Put the Phone Away
The text message, social media notification or work email can wait.
South Carolina’s Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act prohibits drivers from holding or using a mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle, with limited exceptions. If a message or call cannot wait, pull over to a safe location before using your phone.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that reading or sending a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
2. Use the Right Car Seat
Children should always ride in the appropriate car seat or booster seat based on their age, height and weight. South Carolina law requires children to be properly restrained in a federally approved child safety seat or booster seat until they outgrow the requirements established by state law.
Buckle Up South Carolina is the comprehensive guide from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety that covers essential information and local resources for parents.
If you need help selecting or installing a car seat, free assistance is available through certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians.
3. Keep Your Eyes on the Road
A dropped toy, pacifier, juice box or tablet can quickly become a dangerous distraction.
Instead of reaching into the back seat while driving, pull over in a safe location before helping your child or retrieving an item.
A properly installed baby safety mirror can also help you check on a rear-facing child without turning around.
4. Buckle Up Every Trip
Everyone in the vehicle should wear a seat belt every time, regardless of how short the trip may be.
Seat belts remain one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries and save lives during a crash. A recent report from the South Carolina State Child Fatality Advisory Committee showed that many young children involved in fatal crashes were unrestrained.
Before putting your vehicle in gear, make sure every passenger is properly buckled.
5. Always Check the Back Seat
According to NHTSA, a child dies from heatstroke in a hot vehicle about every nine days in the United States. South Carolina knows this heartbreak all too well over the past few years.
Before leaving your vehicle, make it a habit to check the back seat every time. Many newer vehicles include rear-seat reminder technology, but drivers should never rely solely on these systems. A simple routine can prevent a tragedy.
6. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Develop a plan for safely loading and unloading your children.
Whenever possible, park in well-lit areas, keep children close, lock your vehicle after entering or exiting and remain aware of your surroundings. Small safety habits can make a big difference.
7. Set the Example
Children learn by watching the adults around them. When parents and caregivers avoid distractions, wear seat belts and obey traffic laws, they teach children habits that can last a lifetime.
Car safety is critical not only as kids grow, but also when they begin driving on their own. Trends in motor vehicle deaths show teenage drivers continue to face significant risks, especially related to distracted driving, speeding and failure to use seatbelts.
We know that caring for children is hard work every day. But please know that every time you put your phone away, buckle every passenger and stay focused on the road, it matters so much. You help protect not only your own family but everyone traveling on South Carolina’s roads.
