Guidelines for replacing car seat after an accident?

[shall85296]

I'm wondering if it is an across the board recommendation to replace the carseat after a crash, or if there are guidelines.
Also, any tips for handling the carseat issue w/ the insurance company?
TIA.
Stacy

[Joolsplus2]

Every company has their own rules about replacement... I know Britax follows the NHTSA rules http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/childps/ChildRestraints/ReUse/RestraintReUse.htm but some other companies are more strict.
Usually demanding to speak to someone "higher up" and offering to fax a copy of your carseat manuals "replace this seat after a crash!" warning page should do the trick...or asking them to send you a letter that THEY would take all responsibility for any damages or injuries that might occur if you reuse the seat against the mfr's instructcions after a crash...that sometimes gets them activated...

:)
Julie CPS Tech and mom to 2 in seats
http://www.cpsafety.com/articles/RFAlbum/SarahMA.aspx

[stillplayswithbarbies]

GEICO told us they would not replace the seat because it was a minor accident (as per the guidelines on the link Julie posted) but when we talked to the adjuster, we said "there was a child seat in the car" and he said to fax him the receipt for a new one and he cut us a check. So, even if the insurance company says "no", talk to the adjuster.

...Karen
DS Jake Feb 91, DD Logan Mar 03
http://members.aol.com/khowe14494/superpower.gif http://members.aol.com/khowe14494/borntobebreastfed2.gif