Study finds most child car seats are installed wrong

A child is pictured in a car seat. (iStock)

A new study shows most child car seats in Canada are being used incorrectly, prompting experts to warn that small mistakes can put children at serious risk in a crash.

The CYBEX-commissioned research, conducted in collaboration by Dalhousie University, the Child Passenger Safety Association of Canada (CPSAC), and IWK Child Safety Link, found 81 per cent of child restraints observed were misused or improperly installed. That’s a sharp increase from 55 per cent in a similar 2015 study.

The study assessed 1,005 child passengers in 682 vehicles from May to November 2024.

Katherine Hutka, president of CPSAC, said many families believe they are installing seats properly, but common errors — from loose harnesses to skipping the top tether — are widespread.

“Families want to do the right thing, but this study confirms just how often small mistakes put kids at risk,” Hutka said.

Researchers say using the right car seat and installing it correctly can reduce a child’s risk of death in a crash by up to 75 per cent and the risk of serious injury by nearly 70 per cent.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit provides education for families on car seat safety during prenatal classes. Complete information is available on the health unit’s website.