Car Entrapment Prevention Tips for Kids and Parents | DC Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog

Toy cars are prized posessions for many young children — that’s partly why it’s so important for parents to explain that real vehicles are not toys or play areas.   Even car trunks, which may seem like a harmless automotive feature, can pose risks to kids in the form of entrapment dangers.

All automobiles manufactured after 2001 are equipped with trunk-mounted release handles to prevent accidental entrapment.  When children turn up missing, parents should never neglect to look in the trunks of automobiles — particularly those built prior to 2001.  These tips and many others are featured on SafeKids.Org, a safety organization with the following fact and tips for preventing entrapment accidents in automobiles.

Facts:

• “There were at least nine incidents of fatal car trunk entrapment resulting in 19 deaths to children under age 7 from 1987-1998, all occurring in hot weather.

• Eight of the incidents occurred when the outside temperature was at least 90 °F degrees Fahrenheit and at least five cars were parked in direct sunlight.

• The American Automobile Manufacturers Association reported 16 deaths of children in seven incidents of accidental entrapment from 1987 through 1998 and 12 cases of intentional entrapment of children (4 deaths) in trunks in the same period.”

Tips:

• “Store keys and remote entry devices away from children.

• Check trunks for missing children.Every second counts.

• Show children the glow-in-the-dark trunk handle release.  When they are strong enough, teach them how to use it properly.

• Teach children that trunks are for cargo – not for people or pets.”

Previously on the DC Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:

• A baby crib recall due to entrapment hazards
• Swimming pool entrapment risks
• A congressional inquiry into automobile “blind spots” and driveway accidents

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