Did you know that nearly 70 percent of car seats are not installed correctly? It is a startling statistic, and it is a concern that keeps many parents up at night. The good news is that you don’t have to guess if your installation is correct–parents can get their seats checked by a certified technician for free at over 100 inspection stations statewide. Visit Clickit.Utah.Gov to find one near you. 

Why This Matters for Utah Families

When we look at recent crash data here in Utah, the importance of this becomes very clear. Between 2021 and 2025, 28 percent of children aged 0 to 8 who were involved in vehicle crashes were not properly restrained. Sadly, more than half of those children sustained injuries, and we lost five young lives in these preventable incidents.

We know that no one plans on getting into a crash, but the reality is that we never know when one might happen. That is why it is vital to keep your child secured correctly every single time you hit the road.

If you feel a bit of “parent-guilt” or worry about judging eyes, please know you are not alone. Car seats can be complex, and every vehicle handles differently. Our technicians are here to help, not to judge; we want to empower you so that when you leave, you feel confident securing your child on your own.

To ensure your child is safe, follow these three simple steps:

  • Find the right fit: Choose a car seat that is the right size for your child and fits your specific vehicle.
  • Check for movement: Once installed, the seat should not move more than one inch at the belt path from side to side or back to front.
  • Tighten the harness: Keep the chest clip at armpit level. Ensure the harness straps are tight enough that you cannot pinch any webbing together vertically.

A few extra tips:

  • Check the expiration date: Car seats typically last 6 to 10 years. Look for a sticker on the plastic shell that lists the “Do Not Use After” date.
  • Know the history: Avoid buying secondhand seats unless you know their complete history. Never use a seat if you aren’t 100% sure it hasn’t been in a crash.
  • Watch for fakes: Be careful of deals that seem too good to be true, as counterfeit car seats do not provide the same life-saving protection.

Take Action Today

You don’t have to become a car seat expert overnight. In Utah, we have over 120 inspection stations across the state where certified technicians are ready to help you navigate your manual and the mechanics of your car.

The best part? This is a completely free service.

Visit clickit.utah.gov today to find a free, local car seat inspection station near you.