What action is considered best practice if a car seat has experienced a crash?

Replacing a car seat immediately after it has experienced a crash is considered best practice due to several important safety reasons. Even if the car seat shows no visible damage, it may have internal structural compromises that are not apparent. The forces involved in a crash can affect car seat components, such as the harness and the shell, which are designed to withstand certain impacts without deformation.

Car seat manufacturers typically recommend replacing any car seat that has been involved in a moderate to severe crash to ensure that the child is protected during future travels. This precaution helps eliminate any uncertainty regarding the integrity of the seat in the event of another incident. It's crucial to ensure that children are always secured in car seats that are known to meet safety standards without any potential hidden damage.

While contacting the manufacturer for advice can provide additional guidance and specific recommendations, the general consensus in child passenger safety is to err on the side of caution and prioritize the child's safety by opting for a replacement rather than risking their wellbeing.