Car accidents: Do you really have to replace the car seat?

The subject of cars and car seats came up recently in our house.

I have heard, and you may have too, that car seats need to be replaced after an accident.

So, is it true?

According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration, the answer is maybe.

If it was a moderate or severe crash, then yes, you should replace the car seats.

However, if it was just a minor accident, then you may not automatically need to, officials say.

Which begs the question — what is a minor accident? An accident is considered minor if:
1. the vehicle was able to be driven away from the crash site;
2. the vehicle door nearest the safety seat was undamaged;
3. there were no injuries to any of the vehicle occupants;
4. the air bags (if present) did not deploy; AND
5. there is no visible damage to the safety seat.

So, there you go. And if you have any questions, I would deploy the better safe than sorry technique. You can get a good car seat for $100-$130. Metal can be replaced, car seats can be replaced, babies can not.

• An editor by day, Scott Mayes is also dad to Matthew, Micah and Nathan. He’s a high school parent, a youth basketball dad and changes diapers. He’s the proud owner of two car seats – one for each car – and one smiling baby boy.