January 4, 2007
The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA), which represents
the
leading manufacturers of infant child restraints in the United States,
questions the forthcoming findings of Consumer Reports magazine about the
performance of infant child restraints in recent crash tests. In the real
world, no product is more effective at reducing fatalities and injuries to
our precious children.
"Child restraints are highly effective safety devices that have saved
thousands of children's lives in car crashes," said Robert Waller, JPMA
President. "Their use is required throughout the nation, because they are
so
effective at reducing injury to children. It is irresponsible to suggest
that infant child restraints may not perform well in crashes."
Moreover, the crash test results and protocols have not previously been
shared with the industry or government for proper evaluation. The
scientific
validity of Consumer Reports' conclusions is highly questionable. Most
infants and toddlers under 4 years of age are being transported in vehicles
with child restraint seats. Research has proven time and again that these
seats are highly effective at reducing the likelihood of death by more than
70%. These seats are considerably more effective than adult safety belts.
The bigger issue affecting the potential for injury or death is non-use of
such seats. Too many infants and especially older children ride
unrestrained
in motor vehicles.
All child restraints sold in the United States are required to satisfy the
rigorous performance standards established by the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA), and are certified by their manufacturers as
compliant before they can be offered for sale. Manufacturers extensively
test their child restraints, using both in-house and independent test
laboratories, both for the purpose of assuring compliance before marketing
the products and to confirm continuing compliance during production. The
Government also independently tests child restraints every year to ensure
compliance with its standards.
NHTSA has determined that "child restraints are highly effective in
reducing
the likelihood of death and or serious injury in motor vehicle crashes." 68
Fed.Reg. 37620, 37622 (June 24, 2003). NHTSA studies show that for infants
(children less than one year old), a child restraint can reduce the risk of
fatality by 71 percent when used in a passenger car and by 58 percent when
used in a light truck, van or SUV. 68 Fed.Reg. at 37622.