Does bracing (when allowed) offer more protection?

mom2ari · Aug 11, 2014

I am just wondering if bracing a seat, such as a RN where it is allowed by the manufacturer, would provide an added safety benefit. I ask because one of the reasons to buy an infant seat with a load leg is to reduce downward rotation, thus reducing rebound. Wouldn't bracing essentially do the same thing?

Also, on a side note ... a RN that is braced can also be tethered, correct?

Brigala · Aug 11, 2014

I learned in a CEU class I took once that yes, bracing has some safety benefits. Some independent group did some crash test studies on it.

Even when tested on seats that "don't allow" it.

The risks associated with messing with the front air bag sensors are believed to outweigh the benefits, however, and obviously this independent group couldn't test ALL seats on the market, so if it's not allowed it's still very important not to do it because who knows whether it will cause a problem with YOUR seat (whichever seat that might be).

mom2ari · Aug 11, 2014

Thanks! I was specifically thinking about the majority of places in my oddy that bracing wouldn't interfere with airbag sensors, but the risk vs benefit was interesting to note!

On a related note, is there a point where a RN can be too braced, aside from being at an angle that is too upright?

Brigala · Aug 12, 2014

The most recent thing I've heard is that it shouldn't change the angle of the seat. But years ago I was pretty sure the rule was that it couldn't lift the butt of the Radian off the vehicle seat.

So the short answer is, "I don't know."

Does bracing (when allowed) offer more protection?

mom2ari

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Brigala

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mom2ari

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Brigala

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