Governor Hochul Announces Free Car Seat Checks During Child Passenger Safety Week

Albany, NY - Governor Kathy Hochul has declared that free child car seat inspections by certified child passenger safety technicians will be accessible throughout New York State during Child Passenger Safety Week. The week-long event, which commenced on Sunday, September 17, will culminate with National Seat Check on Saturday, September 23. This initiative is part of a broader year-round safety campaign where state and local law enforcement agencies collaborate with community safety partners to provide complimentary fittings.

Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of child safety: "As a Governor, mother, and grandmother, keeping our children safe is a top priority. Car seat checks can save lives, and I urge all parents and caregivers to seize this chance to confirm that their children are adequately fastened in the suitable booster seat or car seat to safeguard our young ones and prevent fatalities."

Recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) paints a concerning picture. In 2021, traffic accidents claimed the lives of 1,184 children below 15 years of age. Alarmingly, 40% of these children were not restrained. Furthermore, an estimated 445 children sustained injuries daily in traffic collisions while traveling in various vehicles, including cars, SUVs, pickups, and vans.

Mark J.F. Schroeder, the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and GTSC Chair, highlighted the significance of proper car seat usage. He remarked, "It’s a proven fact that correctly using a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt saves lives. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee offers parents and caregivers vital safety information and consistent car seat inspection opportunities to guarantee the correct installation of their child safety seat. These events epitomize New York's commitment to shielding young lives on our streets."

According to the NHTSA, when employed correctly, car seats can diminish the risk of fatal injuries by 71% for infants (below 1 year old) and by 54% for toddlers (aged 1 to 4) in passenger cars. However, a concerning statistic reveals that nearly half (46%) of the car seats were improperly installed, despite parents' belief.

During the event, trained technicians will adopt the "Learn, Practice, and Explain" approach to instruct caregivers on selecting an appropriate child restraint that suits their child, fits their vehicle, and is consistently used correctly.

Parents and guardians looking to benefit from this initiative can find events near them by visiting the seat check event calendar. Additionally, those who can't attend an event can make an appointment at one of the year-round child safety seat inspection stations to ensure their child's safety throughout the year.

For additional details about the GTSC and its initiatives, individuals can visit trafficsafety.ny.gov.