Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 14 and under. In 1997, approximately 1,775 children 14 and under died in motor vehicle crashes. More than 270,000 were injured as occupants in motor vehicles in 1998. Seventy-five percent of motor vehicle crashes occur within 25 miles of home. In addition, 60 percent of crashes occur on roads with posted speed limits of 40 mph or less. California Child-Safety Seat Law: Effective 1 January 2001, a new law increased the fine from $50 to $100 for drivers who fail to secure children in child-safety seats. A second or subsequent offense is punishable by a fine of $250. California Vehicle Code 27360 requires infants or toddlers younger than 4 or smaller than 40 pounds to ride in child-safety seats. Beginning next year, the requirement goes up to 6 years old or 60 pounds. Follow these safety tips when driving children to school and participating in car pools:
Never put loose or heavy objects in the passenger area of the car that could injure someone if you stopped suddenly or crashed.
Allow extra time in the driver's schedule to avoid driving too fast when late.
Arrange to pick up children at a safe spot away from the congestion of traffic around the school.
Drop off children in a safe location so that they do not have to cross the street. Make sure they enter and leave the car on the curb side.