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Do you need to replace carseat after a wreck?

LondonBridgesLondonBridges
in Toddlers: 12 - 24 Months
My friend was in a wreck this weekend with her 20 month old son.  Thankfully everyone is okay.  She is under the impression that since it was a fender bender (and the carseat doesn't show any visible damage), she doesn't need to replace it.  I was under the impression they should always be replaced after a wreck?  Does anyone know what should be done?  Why does the carseat need to be replaced?  Thanks!
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Re: Do you need to replace carseat after a wreck?

  • EuroChickEuroChick
    Not sure, better to ask the fire department or somehing like that.  FYI her insurance may cover a new one.
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  • Toni1019Toni1019
    I don't know 100% but I thought if it was a minor accident, you don't always have to replace them. She should be able to call the police department or insurance company, and they should be able to tell her.
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  • pjoann78pjoann78
    I don't have personal experience, but I've heard they should be replaced after 2 minor accidents or 1 major accident.  If I was in a fender-bender, I'd ask my insurance agent what they recommended (even if they didn't cover the replacement).
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  • T1andT2T1andT2
    If the car was able to drive away from the scene....then she doesn't technically need one.  Unless she does not think it is safe anymore.  I would think she could get it into the insurance claim....if there is one. 
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  • jennterrelljennterrell

    the guideline i have heard is that if any airbags deployed, or if the damage was to the quarter section of the car closest to the carseat, or of course if there is visible damage, then replace the carseat.

    i would ask a certified inspector, or call the cust svc of the carseat manufacturer. Also, ditto PP about the insurance covering it. I would not however ask them about whether or not it should be replaced, as i don't think they are very up to date on carseat safety at all.

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  • olivejuice127olivejuice127

    Tell her to check the NHTSA site. I can't find it right now but there is a check list on there somewhere about what criteria needs to be met in order to find out if you need a new one or not.

    You do NOT need a new one if: Airbags did not deploy, impact was not near the carseat, she was going under a certain mph..?

    My husband was in a wreck with DD car seat in there too and automatically I thought we needed a new one until I saw that checklist.?

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  • LondonBridgesLondonBridges
    Thank you all very much for the information!  You guys are quick.
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  • marriedddddmarrieddddd
    Unless it was so minor that the car didn't need repairs, I think it would be worth replacing. We were just in an accident last night-- the airbags didn't deploy, and the only damage was to the bumpers of both cars (but damage was more than scratches-- the bumpers need to be replaced) and the first thing pedi said when I called was to replace the carseat. I think better safe than sorry.
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  • SuperCuteBenzSuperCuteBenz member
    She should check the checklist on the NHTSA (?) site. I don't have the link off hand, but she should also call the manufacturer, because they will tell her their own specifications.
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