Citation

Trinca GW, Arnberg PW, Arnberg L. J. Traffic Med. 1981; 9(1): 2-5.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1981, International Association for Accident and Traffic Medicine)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Parents are recommended the use of a rearward facing child seat for their children as soon as the child is able to sit up (6-7 months). Swedish studies indicate that rearward facing child restraints are safe and liked by parents (Arnberg, 1977). The rates for children killed in traffic accidents each year in Sweden are half that for children in those countries where children are transported with similar frequency. To assist parents at the time of allocation they were told the purpose of the study was aimed at improved design and increased protection for young children in cars. Parents were able to observe the installation, the functioning of buckle and harness systems and have a trial use of each seat variety with their children. The specific features of each seat type was pointed out to each parent. Following choice the seats were installed by technicians available for that purpose. Unfortunately, in a few instances the seat of first choice could not be installed in the particular model of car driven by the parent. Complete first choice by all subjects was also prevented by one type of seat - (Safedrive) being completely allocated before half of the other seats had been. Seven extra Safedrive seats eased the position but some random assignment was necessary. During the installation parents were interviewed and answered a short questionnaire of the reasons for their choice. Parents were also advised on removal and replacement, most suitable sleeping position, adjustment of seats and in one type of seat, how to change from front seat rearward facing to back seat forward facing. The parents were sent a questionnaire concerning their satisfaction with the seats one year after the allocation. Most of them had used the seats on a daily basis during the interim. All of the parents were rather positive toward the seats at this time, although this was more true for the smaller forward facing seats (Safe-n-Sound, Steelcraft) than for the larger seats like the Safedrive and Klippan seats. There were however no parents who did not have some criticism concerning the seat they had been using.