Research on child restraints in vehicles
In Australia, motor vehicle crashes are a major cause of child death and disability. Each year, an average of 850 children are seriously injured on Australian roads (Charlton, 2005).
Child restraints play a vital role in reducing injury and death in children involved in car crashes. The death rate is reduced by 71% in infants and 54% in young children if they are properly restrained (WHO, 2004). Other studies of children involved in car crashes have also revealed that unrestrained children were three times more likely to be injured than children who were properly restrained in motor vehicles (Durbin et al, 2005).
Whilst it is important that children are properly restrained when traveling in motor vehicles, an alarming report by the Monash University Accident Research Centre has indicated that the majority of baby capsules and child restraints in Australia are incorrectly fitted or improperly used.
For more information on child restraints and how the legislation applies in Queensland, go to www.transport.qld.gov.au/childrestraints or phone the Department of Transport and Main Roads on 13 23 80.
To ensure your baby travels safe, book an appointment for a baby capsule fitting with Queensland Ambulance Service. You can make an appointment online or you can call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) – let Queensland Ambulance look after the safety of your baby.
Last updated 16 March 2012
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