Is my daughter's car seat still safe?

Question

My 3 year old has a Britex Marathon. I bought it about a year ago. I was rear ended while at a stop light shortly after. I had my car repaired and never even thought about the car seat being affected because my vehicle is a SUV and only the tail lift was damaged.

I read online that even minor car accidents can weaken a car seat, making it less effective (especially in a second accident). Is my car seat less safe now even though it was not touched by the accident and we were stopped when we got hit??

Answer 1

I wouldn't think so.  But, the best authority on car seat safety is your state police.  They often provide great info on car seat safety including offering to measure your child for correct car seat size and style and inspecting your car seat to ensure you have it installed correctly.  They may have the info on the web or you can give them a call.  In CA they provide sites, such as a mall parking lot, where you can bring your car and child and they really get in there and check it all out for you.  The little ones get a kick out of it as they usually have police dogs doing tricks and booths giving out information on child safety, etc.  Ask if your state ever offers anything like that.  It's a great outing, very informational, and when you drive away, you know you've done all you can to protect your child in the car.  Good luck.

Answer 2

Generally you need to replace a car seat if it's been in even ONE accident.  Call up Britex Marathon and see if you can get a replacement or your car insurance should pay for a new one.  Either way, I would replace it to be safe.

Answer 3

I would call the car seat company.  They can tell you and some will even replace them free if you send them the old one.  I think they do test on them or something.  Good luck and I'm glad no one was hurt!

Answer 4

I would get a new car seat and the person who hit you should have to pay for that or their insurance company should. Don't take any chances when it comes to your child's safety.

Answer 5

When we had an accident, the other person's insurance paid to replace our car seat, even though our daughter wasn't in the car when the accident took place.  They said it was because the seats are tightly strapped in, and an accident will make the car move in unexpected ways and possibly put stress on the parts of the car seat that the straps are securing.  Our car was t-boned though, which I think would put more stress on it than being rear-ended.

Answer 6

Omg I can't believe people buy them second hand if that's what happens. And I get upset over buying a second hand helmet. If that's a possibility get a new one, your child's safety is worth more then money despite what people say now a days.