The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating whether a car seat was working properly after a two-month baby boy was ejected from an SUV during an accident.
On April 8, a teen driving a Ford Explorer veered off the shoulder of a curve on Interstate 40 near mile marker 431. She overcorrected and hit a cable barrier causing the SUV to roll over. The two-month old child, in a rear-facing car seat that was buckled in, was ejected. However, investigators said the infant was not buckled into his actual harness.
Both adults in the SUV suffered no injuries and were both wearing seatbelts.
Department of Children’s Services is also investigating the incident. The baby boy is in stable condition after being taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center.
Car Seat Defects and Recalls
Car seat defects and recalls are common. In 2014, Graco recalled nearly two million rear-facing child restraints after it was revealed the harness buckle was difficult to unlatch; in some cases the latch would get stuck, which increased the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Last year, Britax recalled car seats as the harness adjuster button was defective and could remain in the “release” position after the harness was tightened. Recaro recalled car seats after it was found that the top tether anchorage detached from the child restraint.
Britax also recalled some models this year because the handle may crack and break, which could cause the seat to fall unexpectedly and injure a child.
Though car seats may be defective and cause injuries, it is important that parents register their seats in order to be informed of a recall. Furthermore, a parent should always check that the child is properly buckled in before driving.
If you or someone you love has been hurt as a result of a product defect, you may be entitled to file a claim for damages. Our experienced product liability attorneys can help you explore your legal options through a free case review.
To schedule a free consultation, call (865) 247-0080 or fill out a contact form.
