Why your child needs a 5-point harness car seat
When it comes to preparing for a new baby, one of the most important purchases parents make is a car seat. Not only is a car seat legally required, but it's also a safety device that protects little ones while traveling in a vehicle and on public transport. Among the different types of car seats including Doona Car Seat & Stroller, the 5-point harness car seat is a gold standard for newborns. Below we'll explore why babies need a 5-point harness car seat and why it's essential to ensure your car seat includes one.
So why is a 5-point harness car seat essential? It's crucial for infants and toddlers, because it includes straps that secure their shoulders, hips, chest, and groin. Since babies are not fully developed, they are more susceptible to injury in a car accident. The harness offers the necessary support to safeguard their delicate neck and spine during a collision, with the force distributed evenly to the strongest parts of their body, particularly their shoulders and hips, lowering the likelihood of harm or fatality. As a result, the 5-point harness is now regarded as the most dependable safety feature for child car seats and is incorporated into both rear-facing and forward-facing seats.
In the case of a 3-point harness, which restrains the child at the lower abdomen, the child may fold over the belt or restraint during a crash. This can cause the belt to intrude into the abdomen area, potentially leading to significant injury. For this reason, a 5-point harness is often considered a safer option for babies and toddlers. However, keep in mind that 5-point harnesses are only suitable for children up to 40lbs, after which you'll need to switch to a car seat that uses a 3-point seat belt system such as a booster seat.
Besides keeping your little one safe, 5-point harness car seats have some other awesome benefits. For starters, they help to keep your baby securely positioned during sudden movements like stopping or turning, reducing the risk of injury. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), using a 5-point harness can lower the risk of injury by 82%. Plus, they stop your child from climbing out of their seat while you're driving - a big relief for parents.
Another advantage of a 5-point harness car seat is that it allows for adjustable harness heights and strap lengths, which can accommodate the baby's growth and development. This feature ensures that the harness is snug and secure, minimizing the risk of the baby slipping out of the car seat or being ejected during a crash.
It is also important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children should ride in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least two years old or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat manufacturer. This recommendation is based on research that shows that rear-facing car seats provide the best protection for young children in a crash.
Ultimately, the safety and well-being of your child are paramount, and choosing the right car seat is a crucial decision. No matter what type of car you have, it’s essential to find the safest car seat so that it can do its job – keeping your little one protected.
At Doona, we understand the importance of safety and convenience. Our Doona Car Seat & Stroller provides exceptional safety while making every car ride worry-free, from the first trip home to everyday outings. Have a toddler? Our Liki Trike, the smallest folding trike in the market, which folds and unfolds in seconds, is also equipped with a 5-point harness. So don’t stress – we’ve got your little ones covered.
