Statistics show that car seats save lives, but only if they are used properly. If you see someone who isn't following current child safety restraint laws, you may be wondering what the best course of action is.

 Education First

Sadly, many people are simply not adequately informed regarding current car seat safety laws. Although there are car seat clinics held on a regular basis in most communities and every parenting magazine publishes car seat articles multiple times per year, this information can be confusing to new parents who are already stressed out by the responsibility of caring for an infant. After all, a new parent needs to make hundreds of decisions each day – ranging from when to put baby down for a nap to how soon to start introducing solid foods. Add sleep deprivation to the mix and it's no wonder a few things start to fall through the cracks.

Age may also be a factor in whether or not someone is aware of current child safety laws. Car seat safety requirements have changed dramatically in the last few decades. At one point, it was considered acceptable to drive around with your baby in your lap! Grandpa and Grandma may simply not realize that they are breaking the law by not having their grandchildren properly restrained.

If you believe someone is simply misinformed regarding child safety laws, the best course of action is to point them to a Web site or brochure discussing how to make sure a child is correctly restrained. Depending upon your relationship with the offender, you could also offer to accompany him or her to a car seat clinic.

The Next Step

When someone is knowingly breaking the law regarding child safety seats, the correct course of action depends on how serious the situation is. You may also want to keep in mind that state laws tend to be a bit behind in terms of current safety recommendations. The car seat safety guidelines given to you by your child's pediatrician may be above and beyond what is actually required by law in your state.

If there is a reason to believe the child is in immediate danger because the parent is also driving recklessly or is under the influence of drugs and alcohol, call 911. You'll be asked to provide your location, the license plate number of the vehicle, and a description of what unsafe behavior you have witnessed.

If the problem is ongoing, but there is no immediate danger, contact the local police department or the DMV. Some states also have special hotlines you can call. For example, Arizona drivers can call 1-800-505-BABY to request that an informational packet and a warning be sent to the owner of the vehicle. However, a ticket can't be issued without proof of an offense.

Many people believe car seat violations can be reported to Child Protective Services (CPS). Although it's true that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for both children and adults, car seat misuse is not considered a CPS violation unless there are also other factors involved. CPS reports are reserved for cases of physical abuse or neglect.