Being in a car accident is absolutely terrifying, but being in one with your child in the back seat is worse. Even if the accident isn’t the most severe, you want to make sure there is as little damage as possible. It is times like these when a car seat replacement can help you protect your kids.
Car seats are like bike helmets. They protect you from the effects of the crash. During the collision, the padding and internal structure can weaken, which makes it less effective in protecting your child. This is why you should replace the car seat after an accident so that your child stays safe if something like that ever happens again.
If you’re wondering how car seats can help protect your kids, and why insurance companies are responsible for handling replacement, this guide will help.
Why Replacing a Car Seat Is Non-Negotiable After a Car Accident
Have you ever dropped your phone and cracked the screen? What is the first thought that goes through your mind? “I should have put a screen protector,” or “I should have put a protective cover on it.” That’s what car seats do for you.
There are 60% fewer children dying as passenger vehicle occupants due to the increased use of appropriate child safety seats.
When you have been in a car accident, chances are the car seat protected you from the crash, but during the collision, the seat, the plastic, and the foam were affected. You can’t rely on the same car seat to protect you if something like this ever happens again. No one plans for accidents, so you must replace a car seat after a crash.
Most car manufacturers include crash replacement instructions in their manuals, so you know what to do to ensure that after an accident, your car seats guarantee protection. You cannot expect a car seat to guarantee the same protection the second time, so it is best to replace it for maximum protection for you and your family.
Car seat replacement is not a gimmick. Car manufacturers must meet engineering standards, and safety organizations back it up. The car seat absorbs the impact like a sponge absorbs water. If you have children, replacing a car seat with a protective seat can help prevent high-risk injuries in car crashes.
Does Insurance Pay for Car Seat Replacement After an Accident?
Yes, the insurance company does pay for car seat replacement depending on the policy. After an accident, when they call to check on bumper damage and repair costs, the status of the car seat is something they will report on.
This doesn’t mean the settlement you receive will always include car seat replacement. You have to request the car seat replacement after an accident. You will need the following documents to get the insurance company to pay for the car seat replacement:
- Photos of the car seat before replacement
- Proof that the car seat was in use during the crash
- A receipt or model information for the car seat
- A copy of the manufacturer’s replacement policy
Think of it like this: when you return a broken appliance to the store, the store will ask for proof of purchase to determine if you get a refund. Having the receipt and documents ready will ensure smooth processing of your claim.
In some cases, you might also need to show the insurer the car seat so they can inspect it before approving the reimbursement.
How an Auto Accident Lawyer Can Protect Your Family
As a parent, being in an accident can be traumatic for you. You might go into survival mode and try to find ways to protect your family—this includes repositioning car seats and juggling car repairs.
Insurance companies can be difficult, which is why it is important to talk to an auto accident lawyer to get a free consultation. This way, you can ensure that the insurance company pays for the car seat replacement and damages.
At the Law Offices of John C. Ye, we handle cases like this all the time. Our expert auto accident lawyers can help protect your family’s future. We review your case and recommend that you not accept a settlement that leaves out critical safety costs, such as car seat replacement.
If you’re ready to stand up to insurance companies, call the Law Offices of John C. Ye today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need replacement of car seats after an accident if the crash was minor?
Yes, often you do. Even a small crash can weaken a car seat’s structure in ways you can’t see, which can reduce protection in a future accident.
Does insurance pay for a car seat replacement after an accident claim?
In many cases, yes. Car seats are usually covered under property damage, especially when another driver is at fault—but you often have to ask for it.
What proof do I need for the replacement of car seats after an accident, with insurance coverage?
Insurance companies usually want photos of the car seat, proof that it was in the car during the crash, and the manufacturer’s replacement guidelines.
What should I do first if I’m unsure what to do after a car accident, not my fault?
Start by calling the police, documenting the scene, and contacting your insurance company. Make sure to mention that a child car seat was involved.
What to do after a car accident, not your fault, if my child was in the car?
Have your child checked by a medical professional and avoid using the car seat again until you confirm whether it needs replacement.
Can I keep using the same car seat while waiting on insurance?
No, it’s safer not to. If the seat was involved in a crash, its ability to protect your child may already be compromised.
Do car seat manufacturers really require replacement after accidents?
Many do. Most manufacturers follow strict safety testing standards and recommend replacing car seats after crashes that exceed “minor” criteria.
Will insurance reimburse me if I have already bought a new car seat?
Sometimes, yes. Keep your receipt and documentation, and submit them with your claim as soon as possible.
Is a lawyer necessary for car seat replacement claims?
Not always, but insurance disputes are common. An auto accident lawyer’s free consultation can help you understand your rights without costing anything upfront.
How can an auto accident lawyer’s free consultation help after a crash?
A lawyer can review your claim, negotiate with insurance, and make sure important safety costs—like car seat replacement—aren’t ignored.
