Help children stay safe around vehicles.
Family road safety starts before the car moves. Clear routines help adults account for children and help children understand that a driveway, parking space or vehicle is not a play area.
Before moving the car
Check around the vehicle and know where children are before reversing or pulling away. Small children can be difficult to see. Cameras and sensors support observation but do not replace checking the area.
Make safe entry and exit a routine
Have children wait in a safe place while the vehicle is being parked. When possible, guide them to enter and leave on the side away from moving traffic. Adults should supervise around driveways and parking lots.
Keep parked vehicles secure
Never leave a child alone inside a vehicle. Check the whole cabin before leaving, lock parked vehicles and keep keys out of children’s reach. A parked vehicle can become dangerous quickly.
Use the right passenger restraint
Choose a child restraint suited to the child and follow its instructions and the vehicle manual. NHTSA provides guidance on choosing and installing seats and finding inspection help.
Practice a simple family routine
Before each trip, agree who is watching the children and where they should wait. Before leaving the vehicle, check that everyone has exited. Repeating the same routine helps avoid confusion during busy school drop-offs or shopping trips.
Частые вопросы.
Where can I check child passenger safety guidance?
Use NHTSA’s official child-safety resources for restraint selection, installation and hazards around vehicles.
Can a driving lesson cover observation in busy streets?
Yes. Tell your instructor you want to practice pedestrian awareness, reversing observation and safe decisions around parked vehicles.
