National Seat Check Saturday

National Seat Check Saturday highlights the critical importance of using a child safety seat in the car. Held every year on the fourth Saturday in September, this event was started by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Statistics show that accidents involving children are increasing each year, often due to improper use or lack of child seats.

History

In the United States, a specialized training program was developed to eliminate the main road risks faced by children. The most common causes of injury and death are the absence of a child seat, a teenager driving, and children left in hot vehicles. This initiative began at the end of the 20th century, introducing a standardized curriculum for training technicians and instructors qualified to inspect car seats and provide guidance to parents.

Interesting Facts

• In the U.S., every day a child under 13 dies in a car crash, and nearly 380 children are injured.
• A properly selected and installed car seat can reduce the risk of injury by nearly 60%.
• Since child seat laws were introduced, child fatalities from car accidents have dropped by a third.
• Almost half of all car seats are installed incorrectly, significantly increasing risk.

How to Take Part

Review safety instructions and always use the correct child seat in your car. Instructions are available online at the NHTSA website. Be informed about the leading causes of child car accidents in America and share this vital information on social networks. Encourage others to follow child safety protocols.

When is National Seat Check Saturday in 2025?

National Seat Check Saturday is observed on the fourth Saturday of September each year.

Observations