Does Car Insurance Cover Car Seats After an Accident?

Does car insurance cover car seats following an accident? Yes! If a child's car seat gets damaged in a crash, your collision and comprehensive coverage may pay to get a new one. These coverages are important because even a minor accident can make a car seat unsafe for you and your kid. If you want to find out if your car insurance covers car seats, you need to check your insurance policy first as well as the state laws. Also, follow guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to help keep your family safe. Read on to learn more about “Does insurance cover car seat replacements.” 

Does Car Insurance Cover Car Seats? Let's Find Out 

Car insurance often covers car seats, but the extent of coverage depends on the type of insurance policy you have. Collision coverage generally helps replace a damaged car seat after an accident. Liability insurance, on the other hand, only applies if another driver is at fault and their policy covers your property damage.  

Also, comprehensive coverage replaces child car seats when they are damaged by non-collision events, like theft or fire. For this reason, you need to understand your insurance policy clearly as well as the guidelines recommended by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 

However, also note down the following factors that determine whether your car insurance will cover car seat replacement:

• Legal Requirements: In some states, insurers are required by law to replace a damaged car seat. For instance, states like California and Illinois mandate this after a moderate or severe crash.
• Child Occupancy: Certain insurers will replace the car seat only if a child was in it during the accident.
• Proof of Destruction: Some insurers require you to destroy the damaged seat (e.g., cutting the straps) and provide proof before approving replacements. Extent of Damage: Visible damage to the car seat or recommendations from the manufacturer to replace it can strengthen your claim.

Read Relevant Article: Does Car Insurance Cover Car Battery? 

How Does Collision Coverage Help with Car Seat Replacement?

To put it plainly, if you have collision coverage, it will help you cover car seat replacement. Any damage caused by traffic collisions, including damage to a child's car seat, can be covered under the collision coverage policy. For example, if your vehicle is hit and your car seat sustains damage, this coverage ensures it can be replaced. 

Moreover, even if the damage isn’t visible, insurers may still honor a claim, as the integrity of the seat might be compromised. Consequently, submitting a claim under collision coverage can protect your child’s safety. 

Does Liability Insurance Cover Car Seats? 

Liability Insurance often does not cover car seats in your own vehicle. This coverage is designed to pay for damage caused to another person’s property or vehicle during a car crash where you’re at fault. 

However, if another driver is responsible for the collision, their liability insurance may cover your car seat replacement. Therefore, you need to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance in such cases. 

Please note that, if you’re living in one of the no-fault states, then you won’t typically get protection for car seats under your liability policy like PIP coverage. Because it only covers medical expenses and lost wages for injuries, and it doesn’t extend to property damage like car seats. In that case, you need to purchase optional coverage such as collision and comprehensive insurance policies to get covered for car seat replacements. 

Does Comprehensive Coverage Help with Car Seat Replacement?

Yes, it does! Comprehensive policy covers damages caused by non-collision-related incidents including fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. In this case, if you live in a state that floods a lot and your car is damaged, along with the child car seat, this policy would probably pay to replace it. 

This type of car insurance coverage also gives you peace of mind in case of unforeseen events. And in this way, it adds to collision coverage by covering risks that aren't tied to traffic accidents. 

Read More: Does Car Insurance Cover Hail Damage? 

How Can I Tell If My Car Seats Need Replacing Following an Accident?

After an accident, determining if your car seats need replacing is critical for your child’s safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), any moderate or severe collision can compromise the integrity of a child car seat, even if there’s no visible damage. This is why, replacing it makes sure it will function properly in the future. 
Signs You Should Replace a Car Seat:

• Airbags deployed during the accident.
• The car seat was near the impact zone.
• There’s visible damage such as cracks or broken parts.
• The vehicle door nearest the car seat was damaged.
• The seat belt or LATCH straps holding the seat show signs of stress.

However, not every car accident requires a seat replacement. The NHTSA also states that a car seat does not need replacing after a minor crash. According to NHTSA, a crash is considered minor if:

• The vehicle can be driven away from the crash site.
• The door nearest the car seat remains undamaged.
• None of the passengers sustained any injuries.
• The airbags did not deploy.
• There’s no visible damage to the car seat.

Moreover, consult your insurance company and the car seat manufacturer. Some require replacing the seat even after a minor crash. Thus, always err on the side of caution to ensure safety. 

Can I Get a Free Car Seat Replacement After an Accident?

Yes, it is possible to get a free car seat replacement after an accident. However, it depends on your situation and resources. 

Insurance companies often provide replacements if the damage to the car seat is included in a collision coverage claim. However, every policy is different, and not all policies guarantee this, and some may deny coverage based on specific conditions or exclusions. That’s why we recommend checking your insurance policy details carefully. 

If your insurance does not replace the seat due to any valid reasons, there are a few alternative programs available. 

Alternative to Free Car Seat Replacement:

• Government Programs: Medicaid offers free car seats to eligible families who complete car seat safety courses.
• Charitable Organizations: Groups like Buckle Up for Life provide free seats to families in need.
• Local Police or Fire Department: Some departments run safety programs that give away child car seats.
• Retailer Trade-Ins: Stores like Target occasionally offer trade-in programs for damaged or expired seats.

How to File an Insurance Claim for a Damaged Car Seat?

You require careful documentation to file a claim for a damaged car seat. To do so, first clearly understand your insurance policy, particularly what it really covers and what doesn’t. Check whether your collision coverage or the at-fault driver’s liability insurance covers car seat replacement. For this purpose, being organized will help you make the car seat claim process faster. 

To file an insurance claim for a damaged car seat, follow these steps:

1. Notify Your Insurance Provider Immediately: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Provide details about the collision including the involvement of the car seat.
2. Collect Documentation: Take photographs of the damaged car seat from multiple angles, showing any visible damage. Include a copy of the manufacturer's manual which may recommend replacing the seat after a crash. Keep the receipt for the original purchase of the car seat or use your credit card statement if the receipt is unavailable. Lastly, collect the police report if available.
3. Submit Proof of Damage: Show evidence that the car seat was in the vehicle during the collision, even if there’s no visible damage. Also, as we mentioned previously, some insurers might want you to show proof that you destroyed the old car seat.
4. File the Claim: Fill out the necessary claim forms provided by your insurance company. In this step, include all the supporting documents that we’ve discussed in step 2.
5. Follow Up with the Insurance Company: Contact your insurer to check the status of your claim. They might need additional information from you. So, follow-up is important.

You can choose L.A. Insurance, the most affordable insurance agency based in Michigan for reliable and faster car seat coverage claims. Our affordable full coverage auto insurance can ensure you and your child’s safety in an unexpected event.

Common Reasons Why Claims for Car Seat Replacement Get Denied

Filing a claim for a car seat replacement after an accident can be a frustrating process. Many people get disappointed when their insurance company denies their claim. But why does this happen? If you know the reasons for denial, you can take steps to avoid them. 

Here are 5 common reasons for car seat replacement claim denial, highlighted by Safe Ride 4 Kids: 

1. The Car Seat Was Unoccupied

If your child’s car seat wasn’t in use during the accident, some insurers may deny your claim. They may argue that the seat didn’t absorb any impact. However, this overlooks the fact that the seat’s integrity could still be compromised. So, always check your insurance policy for specific requirements. 

2. The Insurance Policy Was Lapsed 

If your insurance policy wasn’t active at the time of the collision, your claim will probably get denied. Forgetting to renew your policy can have serious consequences. That’s why it’s best if you set reminders for your renewal dates. 

3. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation 

Many car seat replacement claims often fail because of missing or incorrect paperwork. For example, if you don’t include the receipt for your child car seat or photos showing visible damage, the insurer may reject your request. Also, you need to keep in mind that for each policy there’s a certain timeframe, typically 24 to 48 hours. So, always make sure to inform your insurer about the accident without any delay. 

4. Suspicion of Fraud

Insurance companies are cautious about potential fraud. If your car seat was already damaged before the accident, or if you provide false details, they may deny your claim outright. To avoid this, be honest and transparent with your insurer. 

5. The Accident Doesn’t Meet Policy Terms 

Some insurers have certain criteria for car seat replacement. For instance, they may only cover the costs if the crash was moderate or severe, or if the airbags deployed. If your collision insurance doesn’t meet these conditions, your claim may be denied. Also, some policies exclude minor crashes altogether. 

NHTSA Car Seat Replacement Recommendations 

car seats and Booster seats are great ways to protect kids, especially in case of a car accident. However, car accidents remain the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 13. Using car seats correctly can reduce fatalities by 71% for infants younger than 1 year old and 54% for children ages 1 to 4 in passenger cars, says The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It's clear now how important it is to have the right car seat and booster seat for your child. 

So, can you use a car seat after an accident? The NHTSA recommends replacing car seats after any moderate to severe crash. Even if there’s no visible damage, unseen internal damage could compromise the seat’s safety. Their research shows that even in crashes that may seem minor, car seats have their own crucial role in preventing serious injuries. In fact, NHTSA statistics show that in one year, 325 children under 5 were saved by car seats in crashes. 

Key Car Seat Recommendations by NHTSA:

• Choose the right car seat based on your child’s age, height, and weight.
• Make sure the car seat fits securely in your vehicle and can be installed properly.
• Install and use the car seat for every ride, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Always check your child fits within the height and weight limits of the car seat.
• Read your vehicle’s owner manuals to learn how to install the seat with the seat belt, lower anchors, or tether if available.
• Keep your child in a rear-facing car seat, then transition to forward-facing and booster seats as they grow, until they reach the manufacturer’s limits.
• Keep your kid in the back seat until at least age 12 for maximum protection.

Keep Your Child Safe by Choosing the Right Car Seats

For your child's safety, you need to choose the right type of car seat. The NHTSA provides guidelines to help parents select seats based on a child’s age, weight, and height. Using the proper car seat substantially reduces the risk of injury during an accident. 

Types of car seats recommended by NHTSA based on your child’s age and size:

1. Rear-Facing Car Seats: Ideal for infants and toddlers. Recommended for children up to 3 years old, depending on their weight and height.
2. Forward-Facing Seats: Suitable for children aged 1 to 7 years. These are equipped with a harness system to provide extra protection.
3. Booster Seats: Designed for children aged 4 to 12 who have outgrown forward-facing seats. It helps position the seat belt correctly.
4. Convertible Seats: Transition between rear-facing and forward-facing positions. It offers flexibility as your child grows.

You can also use the NHTSA Car Seat Finder Tool that helps you determine the best seat based on your child’s details. Simply input your child’s age, weight, and height to receive customized car seat recommendations. 

How do I Properly Dispose of a Car Seat After an Accident?

It's important to dispose of a car seat after an accident so that it doesn't get used by someone else. Some safety features on a car seat may not work right after it has been in a moderate or serious crash. That's why proper disposal is compulsory, at least from an ethical point of view. 

First, check with your insurance company. Some insurers may require you to destroy the car seat before they approve a replacement. Also, certain retailers, like Target, offer trade-in programs for damaged seats, providing store credit or discounts on new ones. If these options aren't available, follow these steps to dispose of the seat responsibly: 

Steps to dispose of a car seat: 

1. Cut the Straps: Use scissors to cut the harness straps to make sure the seat is no longer usable.
2. Label as Unsafe: Write “Do Not Use” clearly on the seat with a permanent marker.
3. Remove Padding and Fabric: Detach and discard any removable padding or fabric to make it less recognizable.
4. Recycle: Contact your local recycling center or waste management facility to see if they accept car seats. Some centers might have specific programs for recycling plastic components.
5. Trash as a Last Resort: If recycling isn’t an option, place the disassembled seat in the trash. Cutting the straps is important as it prevents anyone from attempting to reuse it.

Also, note that you should never donate damaged car seats as they could pose serious risks to other children. Instead, educate others about the importance of replacing car seats after an accident. 

Does Insurance Replace Car Seats: Key Takeaways

• Car insurance often covers car seats, but the type of policy determines the extent of coverage.
• Collision coverage helps replace damaged car seats after an accident, even without visible damage.
• Liability insurance covers car seats if another driver is at fault and their policy includes property damage.
• Comprehensive policies replace car seats damaged by theft, fire, vandalism, or natural disasters.
• State laws and insurance company policies may require proof of destruction or child occupancy for coverage.
• Proper documentation, including photos and receipts, is essential when filing a car seat replacement claim.
• Replace car seats after moderate or severe crashes, as recommended by the NHTSA, to ensure child safety.
• Always check NHTSA guidelines for choosing the right car seat based on your child’s age, height, and weight.
• Dispose of damaged car seats responsibly by cutting straps, labeling them as unsafe, and recycling when possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will Graco replace the car seat after an accident? 

Graco does not replace car seats but recommends replacing any seat involved in an accident. You can contact Graco for a replacement letter to submit with your insurance claim. 

Will insurance replace a car seat if it was unoccupied during the crash? 

Yes, some insurance companies may cover replacement even if the car seat was empty. However, policies vary by insurer. 

Does car insurance cover expired car seats? 

Most insurance policies do not cover expired car seats, as these are already considered unsafe. Check your policy to confirm. 

How does filing a claim for car seat replacement impact premiums?

Filing a claim could potentially increase your premiums, especially if you are at fault. You need to speak to your insurance provider to understand how it affects your rate. 

Should I replace a child seat after a crash? 

Yes, you should replace a child seat after a moderate or severe crash. Even with no visible damage, its safety could be compromised. 

Does car insurance cover car seats in California? 

Yes, California law requires insurance companies to replace car seats after a moderate or severe crash. 

Does car insurance cover car seats in Michigan? 

In Michigan, car seat replacement depends on the insurer. Check your policy and state guidelines for specific details. 

Does car insurance cover car seats in Texas? 

Yes, insurers in Texas may replace car seats depending on the policy terms. Texas laws don’t mandate this, so consult your provider. 

References: 

• Car seat use after a crash | NHTSA. (n.d.). NHTSA. https://www.nhtsa.gov/car-seats-and-booster-seats/car-seat-use-after-cras
• Abróchate a la Vida. (2024, April 16). Buckle Up for Life | Child Passenger Safety & Car Seat Safety Check. Buckle up for Life. https://www.buckleupforlife.org/
• Amie. (2023, April 20). 5 reasons your insurance may deny claims to replace car seats. -. https://saferide4kids.com/blog/5-reasons-insurance-deny-claims-to-replace-car-seats/
• Car seats and booster seats | NHTSA. (n.d.). NHTSA. https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/car-seats-and-booster-seats#car-seat-types/
• Seat belts and child restraints | NHTSA. (n.d.). NHTSA. https://www.nhtsa.gov/book/countermeasures-that-work/seat-belts-and-child-restraints
• National Center for Statistics and Analysis. (2019, March).Lives saved in 2017 by restraint use and minimum- drinking-age laws (Traffic Safety Facts Crash Stats. Report No. DOT HS  812 683). Washington, DC: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• The right seat | NHTSA. (n.d.). NHTSA. https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/right-seat