Crash testing ?

laurengt · Jan 27, 2012

When car seats are crash tested, are they all tested for front, rear, side, rollover...? The stat that children are more safe RF, does that come from all tests or from a "usual" accident? Any good links? From what I find I can't find a clear answer, just "this organization tests this" type answers. I ERF and DHs cousin asked a question about this and I'd love to have a quick reference link to send him and any others that inquire.

Sorry this might not be a clear question, I'm doing a quick post from work. Thanks!

LISmama810 · Jan 27, 2012

Car seats are crash-tested in a simulated frontal crash only. They might also be tested for other types of impacts (side, generally) by manufacturers or other organizations, but the federal regulations address frontal sled tests only.

The argument for rear-facing comes from real-world data. I don't have links handy, but I'm sure someone else does.

Frontal impacts are the most common type of severe impact. Rear-end crashes are common but tend to be very minor (low speeds). They are rarely fatal. Side-impacts are the most dangerous but also the least common. Rear-facing provides benefits in side-impact crashes, too.

jjordan · Jan 27, 2012

To add to what Jennie said, the argument for rear-facing comes also from the laws of physics.

And, in Europe, there are side impact crash tests. Some car seats in the US are starting to be side-impact tested using those standards, or so they claim.