The University of Adelaide CENTRE FOR AUTOMOTIVE SAFETY RESEARCH

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TitleResults and implications of a survey of child restraint use in South Australia
AuthorsAnderson RWG, Edwards SA, Hutchinson TP
Year2006
TypeConference Paper
AbstractA survey has been conducted of child restraint use (infant capsules, child safety seats and booster seats) in motor vehicles in the Adelaide metropolitan area. Driver knowledge concerning child restraint use was also studied. A random sample of 31 pre-schools and primary schools was selected. Researchers visited sites on mornings in August 2004, and surveyed 357 drivers who were transporting children aged 0-10 years. Based on common age recommendations, 82% of children were using an appropriate restraint, but based on the weight of the child (a better metric of correct restraint choice), we estimate that the rate of appropriate restraint selection was between 64% and 72%. The rate of inappropriate restraint selection was due largely to children progressing prematurely to an adult seat belt. Children were rarely unrestrained. We conclude that guidelines on child restraint selection need to be clarified. Higher rates of appropriate restraint use may be achieved by carefully reconsidering the weight ranges for each kind of restraint, specified in the Australian and New Zealand Standard, so that age may be successfully used to guide restraint choice.
PublisherAble Video & Multimedia Pty Ltd
Publisher CityGold Coast
ISBN0734525516
Conference Name2006 Australasian Road Safety Research, Policing and Education Conference
Conference AbbreviationRSR
Conference LocationGold Coast, Australia
Conference Date25-27 October 2006
Page Count10

Reference
Anderson RWG, Edwards SA, Hutchinson TP (2006). Results and implications of a survey of child restraint use in South Australia. 2006 Australasian Road Safety Research, Policing and Education Conference, Gold Coast, Australia, 25-27 October 2006.


Files Available for Download
CASRsurveychildrestraint568.pdforiginal PDF