Observed Use of Tethers in ForwardFacing Child Restraint Systems.pdfVIP

Observed Use of Tethers in Forward- Facing Child Restraint Systems Jessica S. Jermakian JoAnn K. Wells September 2010 1 Abstract Objectives: Use of top tethers with forward-facing child restraints is a simple way for parents to keep their children safer when traveling in passenger vehicles, but tether use remains low. The objective of the current study was to obtain an updated estimate of top tether use. Methods: Data on forward-facing child restraints were collected through an observational survey in the Washington, DC-metropolitan area during July-August 2010. The study sample included all forward-facing restraints that were installed in parked passenger vehicles and visible such that tether use could be observed. For each restraint, certified child passenger safety technicians collected information on the vehicle, seat row, child restraint position, and tether. Results: A total of 1,321 cars, minivans, pickups, and SUVs, with a total of 1,543 forward-facing child restraints, were observed. Top tethers were used with 43% of all forward-facing child restraints. Tether use was similar (43-45%) among cars, minivans, and SUVs but lower (17%) for pickups. Tether use was higher (47%) for 2001 and newer vehicles but dropped to 43% when considering only those with taut installations. Conclusions: Despite LATCH education campaigns and the increased availability of tether anchors, top tether use remains less than 50%. Tether use is even lower in older vehicles, yet many children continue to travel in these vehicles. If tether anchors are unavailable, parents should be encouraged to retrofit vehicle seats. Because many child restraints still are installed with vehicle seat belts, efforts to educate parents on the importance of tether use regardless of installation method may be warranted. Keywords: LATCH; Lower anchors and tethers; Child restraint systems; Child restraint misuse 2 1. Introduction There is strong evidence tha