Summer is the season of road trips, spontaneous getaways, and cross-country family adventures. But before you pack the snacks and cue up the playlists, take a moment to think about your child’s safety on the road.
Every year, thousands of children are injured in preventable car accidents during summer travel. Whether driving across Texas or heading to a local campground outside Fort Worth, safety should always come first.
As a Fort Worth accident attorney, we have seen the aftermath of preventable injuries, especially for kids. This guide will offer practical, legally sound tips to help protect your children during summer road trips.
Start with a Vehicle Safety Check
Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is ready for the trip. A well-maintained car is your first line of defense against accidents. Here is a basic checklist to follow:
- Check the brakes, lights, and windshield wipers.
- Inspect the tires for pressure and tread wear.
- Ensure the air conditioning works, especially for long Texas drives.
- Stock an emergency kit, including a flashlight, jumper cables, first aid supplies, and bottled water.
Mechanical failure is one of the leading causes of summer road accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire blowouts and brake failures spike during long-distance summer travel. Ensuring your vehicle is in top condition reduces the risk of a crash that could harm your child.
Use the Right Car Seat for Their Age and Size
Car seats save lives—but only when used correctly. Texas law requires all children under 8 years old (unless taller than 4 feet 9 inches) to be secured in a child safety seat. After that, they must use a seat belt.
The type of car seat your child needs depends on their age, height, and weight:
- Rear-facing seats: For infants and toddlers up to age 2 or until they exceed the height and weight limits.
- Forward-facing seats: For toddlers and preschoolers who have outgrown rear-facing seats, usually ages 2 to 4.
- Booster seats are for school-aged children until the seat belt fits them properly, typically between 8 and 12 years old.
- Seat belts only: Once a child is tall enough to sit with their back against the seat and knees bent over the edge without slouching.
If you are unsure about installation, many Texas communities offer free car seat inspection stations. You can also check with your local fire department or contact a child injury attorney to learn more about compliance with state safety regulations.
Secure Loose Items Inside the Car
Unsecured items can turn into dangerous projectiles when you brake suddenly or swerve. Water bottles, toys, phones, and even bags can cause serious injuries during a crash or sudden stop. Before departing, stow luggage and loose objects in the trunk or secured compartments for a few minutes.
Also, avoid placing hard or heavy objects in the rear window areas or the backseat floor. If you bring entertainment items for your kids, make sure they are soft and travel-safe.
Plan for Regular Breaks
Children get restless on long drives, and tired drivers make mistakes. Plan your trip with breaks every two to three hours. Stretch your legs, grab a snack, and let the kids move around in a safe area. This helps with everyone’s focus, mood, and overall well-being.
Texas has scenic rest stops, parks, and family-friendly pit stops. Take advantage of these opportunities to give your kids (and yourself) a break from the road.
Never Leave a Child Unattended in a Vehicle
Texas summers are brutally hot. Even with the windows cracked, a vehicle’s interior can reach dangerous temperatures in minutes. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, dozens of children suffer heatstroke each year because they are left inside a parked car.
In Texas, it is illegal to leave a child younger than 7 years old in a vehicle without the supervision of someone who is at least 14 years old. Beyond the legal implications, the risk of heatstroke, suffocation, and abduction makes this an avoidable tragedy.
Make it a habit to check the back seat every time you exit the vehicle. Some parents place an essential item, like a purse or phone, in the back to force a look before locking the doors.
Prepare for the Unexpected with a Safety Plan
Accidents and breakdowns can happen no matter how prepared you are. Create a family emergency plan and teach your children what to do if something goes wrong. Depending on their age, kids can learn to:
- Recognize emergency numbers (911).
- Stay inside the vehicle until an adult tells them otherwise.
- If separated, use their phone or tablet to contact you or another trusted adult.
Older children can also be taught basic first aid or how to exit the vehicle safely in an emergency. This preparedness empowers your child and adds a layer of protection during unexpected moments.
Monitor the Weather Conditions
Texas weather can be unpredictable in summer. Thunderstorms, high winds, and flash floods pose real threats. Before you travel, check the forecast along your route.
If conditions turn dangerous, find a safe place to wait it out. Never attempt to drive through flooded roads—even a few inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle away.
Staying alert to changing weather and road conditions reduces the likelihood of being caught in a risky situation that endangers your children.
Keep Kids Entertained—Without Distraction
Bored kids can become a significant distraction for the driver. Plan age-appropriate entertainment that keeps them busy without causing unnecessary noise or chaos. Audiobooks, music playlists, travel games, and screen time (with volume control) can make long drives easier on everyone.
However, be mindful of screen use at night or in low visibility conditions. The glare from a tablet or phone screen can affect your child’s ability to sleep and distract you if it reflects in your mirrors.
Avoid Drowsy or Distracted Driving
Driving while fatigued is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. The National Safety Council states that drowsy driving causes over 100,000 crashes yearly. Get plenty of rest the night before your trip, and share the driving responsibilities.
Additionally, never text or use your phone while driving. Texas law prohibits texting while driving, and distracted driving remains one of the top causes of injury accidents involving children. If you need to check directions, make a call, or respond to a message, pull over to a safe location first.
Understand Liability and Your Legal Options
Even when you follow all safety rules, accidents still happen. If your child is injured in a crash due to another driver’s negligence, you may have grounds to seek compensation for medical costs, trauma, and long-term impacts.
As a Fort Worth accident lawyer, we help families hold negligent parties accountable. Our role as a child injury attorney is to make sure your child’s best interests are protected during every stage of the recovery process. Children are more vulnerable to certain injuries, such as head trauma and internal injuries, and may need long-term medical care.
Texas law allows parents or guardians to file personal injury claims on behalf of their minor children. Damages may include:
- Emergency room and hospital bills
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Future medical expenses
Do not delay speaking with an injury attorney after an accident involving your child. The statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury claims is generally two years, but when it involves a minor, different rules may apply. Prompt action gives you the best chance of gathering evidence and securing the support your family needs.
What to Do If Your Family Is Involved in a Crash
If an accident happens during your road trip, your first priority should be your child’s safety. Here is what you should do:
- Check for injuries and call 911 immediately.
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Exchange insurance and contact information with other parties.
- Take photos of the scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries.
- Get a medical evaluation for your child, even if they seem fine.
- Contact a Fort Worth accident lawyer to review your case.
Even minor crashes can lead to hidden injuries in children. Adrenaline often masks pain, and young children may not be able to express what hurts. Always err on the side of caution and seek a medical professional’s opinion.
Make Safety Part of the Journey
Summer road trips are a chance to bond, explore, and create lifelong memories. But no destination is worth risking your child’s safety. From choosing the right car seat to knowing what to do after an accident, preparation is your best defense.
We hope these tips help you feel more confident and prepared as you plan your next family adventure. If the unexpected occurs and you need guidance, our Fort Worth accident lawyer team is here to help. As a trusted child injury attorney, we understand how serious these cases can be—and we will stand by your side to protect your child’s future.
