The need for improved side impact protection for child motor vehicle occupants is recognised internationally. This paper describes three separate test programmes assessing the performance of Australian child restraint systems in side impact in terms of the head protection provided by the restraints. It appears that there is scope for the improved performance of the combination of top tether and adult seat belt in reducing the level of sideways movement in child restraints in side impact. The combination of top tether and adult seat belt can reduce forward movement in child restraints in oblique angle side impact. It also appears that top tethers do not play a significant role in ensuring head retention within the child restraint in side impact. Rigid attachment (CANFIX) significantly improves the performance of child restraints in side impact. Six real world cases are also reviewed to illustrate deficiencies in existing child restraints in providing protection in side impact. (A)
Samenvatting