In recent years, new laws have been instituted within New York requiring children to ride in booster seats to prevent serious injuries in car accidents. First, children ages four to six were mandated to ride in booster seats. Most recently, the law was changed to include seven-year-olds as well.

New York booster seat laws were created for good reason. These boosters, which elevate kids from the normal height of car seats, position vehicle seat belts to better protect children. Booster seats also drastically reduce the chances of seat belt-inflicted injuries.

A recent study backs this up. The study, which measured injuries to children ages four to six both before and after the original law, showed that these rates decreased. More children were also restrained in booster seats after the change.

Injury rates in car crashes dipped 18 percent after the law mandating booster seats for children ages four to six. Injuries for children not affected by the law, those below the age of four, remained the same.

The laws also had a real effect on the behavior of parents within the state. While just 29 percent of children ages four to six were strapped in booster seats before the laws went into practice, this number jumped to 50 percent afterward.

If you have children within the ages of the law, it is absolutely crucial to ensure that they are strapped in a booster seat at all times. It is not only the law, but it is the best way to protect them in the case of a New York car accident.

Car wrecks happen. It is your responsibility to ensure you protect your children as much as possible. If you or a member of your family has been injured in a crash caused by a negligent driver, call the Long Island car accident lawyers at Rappaport, Glass, Greene and Levine for a free consultation about your case.

We may able to help you recover damages from a New York car accident. Contact us as soon as possible at (800) 734-9445. Negligent drivers should be held responsible for their actions, and legal action may be required to protect you and your family.