Car Accident -- what requires seat replacement?

[megincl]

DW was in a minor car accident two days ago. She was hit from behind while slowing, by someone coming fast. The fender has a good dent in it. No airbags deployed, we drove the car away, no one was hurt, etc. (but it definitely seems like it was more than a totally minor fender bender)

Insurance says we don't need to replace the seats/they won't pay to replace the seats.

Are the seats okay? If they should be replaced, what do we need to tell insurance? (they mentioned taking pics when they come to inspect the damage -- total hooey, as you wouldn't actually SEE the damage if there were damage to the structural integrity)

Thanks for any help!

[KempsMama]

It depends on the seats-see the manual. I know Graco says always replace, but other manufacturers have different recommendations. Good Luck!

[Marissamom]

if the insurance has stated they won't pay, I would talk to the local police/fire-department about it. if they think it needs replaced they should be able to write up something official to try to convince the insurance company. (and if the insurance company is basing their decision on pix of the carseat, that's bogus. carseats can have micro-damage to the plastic that makes them unsafe in future crashes, and there's no way for it to show even under a magnifying glass)

[DahliaRW]

I think the only seats that follow NHSTA's guidelines are Britax. So if you only have Britax you are good. If you have another brand, it should say in the manual to replace after any accident. In that case, I would take the manual into your insurance agent and insist they replace the seats.

[megincl]

Thanks for all this help!

Both my seats fall under NHTSA guidelines for replacement (a Britax and a Sunshine Kids Monterey), so I think we're good.

But, if there's a reason to push, please tell me!

Thanks!

[DahliaRW]

I would give both manufacturers a call and verify, but you should be fine.

[sunnymw]

Yeah SK and Britax both follow NHTSA guidelines.

For other posters searching in the future... if necessary you can ask your insurance company for a certified letter stating that the seats are still safe to use and that they will accept liability for seat failure in the next accident.