Research clearly shows that booster seats reduce the risk of injuries from vehicle crashes by 59 percent, compared to the use of adult seat belts alone.  The seats ‘boost’ smaller children up so that adult seat belts fit the child correctly. In this way, boosters help prevent internal injuries, neck, head and spinal cord injuries, and even ejection and death in the event of a crash. 

“Booster seat safety is being improved with the introduction of side impact protection in some high back boosters,” said Whitman.  “And, to enhance comfort, many manufacturers are creating booster seats that can lengthen or widen to expand as the child grows.  Boosters are available in a variety of styles to suit children of all sizes and ages and many now feature ‘cool’ extras that appeal to children, like built-in reading lights, cup holders, armrests, and pockets for video games or books,” said Whitman. “Letting older children help choose the seat makes them more likely to use it.” 

“Booster seats don’t have to be expensive,” said Whitman. “All brands have to meet the same federal motor vehicle safety standards.”  If cost is an obstacle, parents can consider a car seat loaner program.  Maryland Kids In Safety Seats has 24 sites around the state where parents may be able to rent car or booster seat for a small fraction of the cost to purchase a seat.  To find out more information about loaner programs, call KISS at 800-370-SEAT.