The solution

Child safety seats remain the most effective strategy to prevent motor vehicle related injuries and fatalities, reducing the risk of injury for crashes by 71–82% for children overall and 45% for children aged 4-8 using booster seats compared to the seat belt alone (CDC, 2022).

While the use of safety seats is common, misuse of safety seats is also extremely common. When seats are not used as intended by the manufacturers, the safety features are compromised. Pediatric practices play an important role in addressing misuse by screening and educating families. In fact, child passenger safety is the only AAP Bright Futures topic recommended for discussion at every well child visit. Despite this recommendation, many pediatric practices lack the knowledge and resources to effectively address this injury prevention need.

Every Ride Safe Ride

Every Ride Safe Ride, designed by the Virginia Department of Health’s Injury Prevention Program, is a public health technical assistance model to support pediatric practices towards the safe transportation of children during every stage of development.