Athens, Ga. (September 26, 2025) – Car crashes remain one of the leading causes of injury and death for children in the United States. Motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of death for children ages 4 to 10, according to national data. The good news: the proper use of car seats, booster seats and seat belts can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death.

Safe Kids Athens at Piedmont Athens Regional is highlighting this message during National Child Passenger Safety Week, observed Sept. 21–27.

“We want every parent and caregiver to feel confident that their child is riding safely,” said April Dorsett, RN, BSN, Safe Kids Athens Coalition Coordinator. “Even small adjustments to a car seat’s installation or fit can make a life-saving difference.”

Research shows that booster seats can reduce the risk of serious injury by 45 percent compared to seat belts alone. However, many children are moved to seat belts too early, increasing their risk of abdominal, head and spinal injuries.

Safe Kids Athens offers free car seat checks year-round to help families ensure their children are traveling safely.

To mark the awareness week, Piedmont Athens Regional and Safe Kids Athens participated in the Child Safety and Health Festival at Georgia Square Mall. More than 200 families received education and resources to support child safety. The event featured free car seat checks by certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians, children’s activities and giveaways including car seats and booster seats.

For more information or to schedule a free car seat check, contact April Dorsett, Piedmont Athens Regional Community Education nurse and Safe Kids Athens Coalition Coordinator, at 706-475-5631 or april.dorsett@piedmont.org.