Teach older kids to be safe passengers ()
Car crashes are the number one cause of death and injuries to children. Older kids between the ages of 8 and 14 need clear, consistent messages about how to stay safe in a car as they become more independent.
Why are 8- to 14-year-olds at risk?
- Many are still too small to ride safely in seat belts only and should use a booster seat.
- They are less likely to ride safely than younger children due to peer pressure.
- They are more likely to be riding in the front seat, where the risk of injury is greater.
- Older kids often ride with new drivers such as siblings and friends.
What parents can do:
- Make sure everyone in the car buckles up before every trip, no matter how short. It is the law.
- Make sure each child sits in their own seat with a seat belt or booster seat if needed.
- Have all kids younger than 13 in the back seat.
- Set rules for who your child can ride with.
- Wisconsin law limits the number and age of passengers for new teen drivers.
- Let your children know what to do if they do not feel safe riding with someone. Tell them to call you, and you will pick them up.
What older kids can do:
- Always buckle up, even if others do not.
- Sit in the back seat if they are younger than 13, even if the driver tells them they can sit in the front seat.
- Say something if they see something unsafe or feel unsafe.
- Know that it is okay to say, “I am not going to ride without a seat belt. It is not safe.”
- Call an adult if they need help or a safe ride home.
