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Expert Q&A

	By Stacy A. Robarge Parent Educator

When traveling a long distance by car, my husband will sometimes lean my daughter's car seat way back so she can sleep better. Is this safe?

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No, it is not safe to lean your child's car seat back. Car seats are crash tested in the position that is recommended by the car seat manual. For forward facing car seats that would be in the upright position, and for rear facing car seats that would be at an angle of no more than 45 degrees. In addition to crash testing, the car seat structure may not be designed to withstand the forces of a crash in any other position than the one recommended in the car seat manual. I do not recommend that you position the car seat in a reclined position for forward facing because it has not been tested nor designed for that position and may not be safe for your child. If a forward facing child safety seat is installed tightly and correctly you should not be able to recline it. I would suggest that you call your local law enforcement agency, or local chapter of safe kids and ask for a car seat check to ensure that your seat is in tightly and correctly. For more information about car seat check points and technicians in your areas see www.nhtsa.dot.gov.

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