It is an unfortunate reality that car accidents happen every day here in Colorado and being involved in a car accident car can have lasting repercussions for all of the people involved, including children. The attorneys at McDivitt Law Firm know that children are some of the most vulnerable victims of car accidents. There are many parents who have been involved in a car accident when their children were in the car with them, which can be a very scary situation for everyone. The team at McDivitt Law Firm is highly experienced in advocating for clients and their families during these difficult times following a car accident and will be able to assist you with navigating the process that follows being involved in a car crash.
Car crashes can be especially concerning for parents with younger children, because they need to take extra precautions with their younger children by having them ride in properly secured car seats. These car seats are very important because they are able to offer the needed protection that a young child needs in the car because of their small size and young age. When properly restrained in a car seat, children are often the most protected people in a car crash. However, once a car seat has been through a crash, it must be replaced, even if a child wasn’t riding in the seat at the time of the accident. Most parents know that car seats can be very expensive to replace, some costing upwards of several hundred dollars, and that could lead to a parent involved in a car accident wondering; “does my insurance cover the cost to replace the car seat after a car accident?”
Laws Surrounding Car Seats in Colorado
The State of Colorado has various laws surrounding when and what type of car seat needs to be used by parents driving with their children. The specific regulations can be found on the Colorado Department of Transportation’s website, and it lays out what type of car seat is needed for children depending on their age and weight.
When should I replace a car seat after a car accident?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), they recommend “that car seats be replaced after a moderate or severe crash in order to ensure a continued high level of crash protection for child passengers. Car seats do not automatically need to be replaced following a minor crash.”
Additionally, the NHTSA defines a minor crash as one in which all of the following points apply:
· The vehicle was able to be driven away from the crash site.
· The vehicle door nearest the car seat was not damaged.
· None of the passengers in the vehicle sustained any injuries in the crash.
· If the vehicle has air bags, the air bags did not deploy during the crash; and
· There is no visible damage to the car seat.
Will my insurance pay for the replacement of a car seat?
According to Progressive Insurance, “The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that parents replace car seats “following a moderate or severe crash” to keep kids as safe as possible. Following these guidelines, car insurance providers will often cover the cost of a new car seat under your collision coverage in the case of an accident.” Progressive notes that when you file your insurance claim after a car accident, you will need to let your insurance provider know that you will need a new car seat and specify the type of car seat damaged in the car accident. This information is needed so that they can reimburse you by paying for a replacement that matches the quality and type of car seat.
Do you need help after a car accident?
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of needing assistance after a car accident, remember that you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. In such challenging times, seeking the guidance and support of experienced personal injury attorneys can make all the difference. The professionals at McDivitt Law Firm are here to lend a helping hand and ensure that you receive the legal representation you deserve.
Car accidents can have a profound impact on your life, causing physical, emotional, and financial distress. When you reach out to McDivitt Law Firm for assistance, you can expect compassionate and dedicated attorneys who will listen to your story, assess the unique circumstances of your accident, and craft a tailored legal strategy to protect your rights.
