KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) treats about 400 children injured in road traffic accidents each year in Singapore, with most unrestrained in any form of car seat at the time of the crash [1, 2]. In 2025, traffic deaths in Singapore hit a 10-year high with 149 fatalities, up from 141 in 2016, while traffic injuries rose from 9,342 in 2024 to 9,955 in 2025 [1, 2].

KKH launched a newborn car seat programme in 2025 aimed at improving vehicle safety for children [1, 2]. The hospital warns that children under 1.4 meters risk severe internal injuries if secured by adult seat belts, which often do not fit properly [1, 2]. Singapore law requires children below 1.35 meters to be properly restrained in vehicles, except in taxis where car seats may not be available [1, 2].

A stark example of these risks emerged in 2025 when a two-month-old baby who was taken out of a car seat and held in an adult's arms during a collision suffered severe brain injury requiring neurosurgery and ongoing rehabilitation [1, 2]. Dr Ronald Tan, KKH senior consultant and chair of the hospital's injury prevention working group, called it "one of the worst-case scenarios for a young child, whose life trajectory is now altered because of this very preventable injury. It affects the whole family, given the stress and guilt they experience" [1]. He added that "that one simple act is the most powerful step you can take to protect their future. It can mean the difference between life and death" [2].

Data from the National Trauma Registry indicates that 80% of children aged nine and below involved in accidents between 2015 and 2024 were not using car seats [1, 2]. Most children admitted to KKH for road injuries in recent years were similarly unrestrained [1, 2].

KKH continues to promote awareness of proper child restraint use to reduce preventable injuries. The newborn car seat programme remains active in 2026 as the hospital reinforces its message to caregivers and parents on the importance of buckling children correctly during vehicle travel [1, 2].