Use and misuse of child restraint devices in Michigan.

This paper provides an overview of a statewide survey of child restraint device (CRD) use and misuse in Michigan. The study found that about 75 percent of children under the age of four were in a CRD and that CRD use generally followed the safety belt use patterns of the drivers. The study also found that when a CRD was used, nearly 90 percent of the time an error was made in either how the CRD was placed in the vehicle or how the child was placed in the CRD. Patterns of misuse are discussed as well as some ideas for improving correct use. (A)