Do I need to replace my carseats?

Question

I was in a car accident last week. I got hit going through an intersection. The impact was on the drivers side, and there's enough damage so that the passenger side doors are having difficulty opening. Fortunately, my children were not with me at the time. Do I need to replace their car seats? There is no internal damage to the car - the doors didn't cave in or anything - so the seats didn't get hit, and the kids were not in them, so the restraints shouldn't have been stressed... but I don't want to put my kids at risk. I intend to call the car seat manufacturer on Monday for more information, but wanted to see what others think...

Answer 1

I'm inclined to say you should replace them; manufacturer will likely tell you to do so. Talk to insurance company -- they might cover the replacement.

Answer 2

Most local police stations will inspect child safety seats free of cost. Give them a call and still call the manufacturer and see what they have to say. I'm glad you were not hurt and double glad your children weren't with you.

Answer 3

Yes, replace them.  Your insurance company should reimburse you for them.  If they give you trouble, call the carseat manufacturer or check the manual.  Most say even after a minor accident to replace.