As Child Passenger Safety Week begins across California, Newman police are reminding families to take a close look at their children’s car seats — and how they’re installed — as part of a statewide push to reduce injuries and save lives.

The California Office of Traffic Safety’s annual campaign, running Sept. 21–27, highlights persistent problems with car seat misuse. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows nearly half of all car seats are used incorrectly, and proper installation can reduce injury crashes by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers.

Newman Police Department Lt. Ashley Williams said the issue is one officers see regularly and one that can be corrected with the right information.

“Choosing the right car seat and installing it correctly are two of the most important things you can do to protect your child,” Williams said. “There are so many options out there that it can be overwhelming, but taking the time to make sure your child is in the right seat for their age and size — and that it’s installed properly — can make all the difference in a crash.”

California law requires children under 2 to ride in rear‑facing car seats unless they exceed height or weight limits. Older children must remain in booster seats until seat belts fit properly across the shoulder and lap. A new law, AB 435, takes effect Jan. 1, 2027, requiring children ages 8 to 16 to pass the state’s “Five‑Step Test” before transitioning out of a booster.

Williams said Newman officers often help parents check seats during traffic stops or community events, and she encouraged families to seek certified technicians if they’re unsure about installation.

Child Passenger Safety Week includes statewide outreach, demonstrations and reminders aimed at reducing preventable injuries. More information is available at gosafelyca.org.