When you’re involved in a car accident, your first concern is always safety – especially if children are involved. As of January 1, Colorado has implemented a new law that directly affects parents, caregivers, and anyone who drives with children in their vehicle.
At Nylund’s Collision Center, we believe informed drivers make safer decisions. This article explains what Colorado’s new child car seat law actually does, how insurance coverage now works after a collision, and what parents should consider to protect their children moving forward.
What Changed in Colorado Law?
Colorado lawmakers passed House Bill 25-1179 to address how insurance companies handle child restraint systems after a crash.
The law does not change child seat usage rules while driving. Instead, it focuses on insurance responsibilities after an accident.
Under the new law:
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Insurance companies must ask drivers whether a child restraint system was present in the vehicle.
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If a car seat or booster seat was in the vehicle, insurers must include coverage for the replacement cost under applicable policies, such as collision or uninsured motorist property damage.
In simple terms, the law ensures that parents are not left paying out of pocket for safety equipment that may have been compromised in a crash.
Does the Law Require Parents to Replace a Car Seat?
This is where confusion often arises.
The Colorado law does not create a separate legal mandate that forces parents or vehicle owners to replace a car seat after a crash. There is no automatic citation or penalty for failing to do so.
However, safety experts and car seat manufacturers consistently recommend replacing child restraint systems after moderate or severe collisions – even if the seat looks undamaged. Crash forces can cause internal damage that isn’t visible and may reduce the seat’s ability to protect a child in a future accident.
From a safety standpoint, replacement is strongly encouraged. From a legal standpoint, the law ensures insurance coverage is available so cost is not a barrier.
Why Even “Minor” Accidents Matter
Many drivers assume that if an accident was low-speed or airbags didn’t deploy, the car seat is still safe. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Car seats are designed to absorb and manage crash energy. Even a relatively small impact can transfer force into the seat’s shell, anchors, or internal materials. These components are not meant to be inspected visually, which is why safety guidance avoids using terms like “minor accident” as a reliable standard.
The new law intentionally avoids defining crash severity. Instead, it removes financial hesitation by requiring insurers to include replacement coverage when a seat was present during a collision.
What to Expect From Insurance Companies
While the law requires insurers to cover replacement costs, the claims process may still involve documentation.
Some insurance companies may ask policyholders to disable the damaged seat – often by cutting the straps — and provide photographic proof before issuing payment. This practice is not written into the statute, but it is commonly used to ensure compromised seats are not reused or resold.
If you’re ever in this situation, documentation matters. Photos of the seat, model information, and clear communication with your insurer can help the process move smoothly.
Liability Considerations Parents Should Understand
Although the law does not impose automatic liability on parents who choose not to replace a seat, liability is a separate issue from legality.
If a child were injured in a future crash while using a restraint system that had been involved in a prior collision, questions could arise about whether replacement was recommended or available. Choosing to replace a seat when insurance coverage exists helps eliminate uncertainty and reduces risk.
Why We Believe This Law Is a Positive Step
At Nylund’s Collision Center, we see firsthand how vehicle safety systems work together – and how critical proper post-accident decisions can be.
This law exists because replacement coverage was not handled consistently in the past. By requiring insurers to address child restraint systems during claims, Colorado has removed a common point of friction for families after accidents.
Consumer-focused laws like this are designed to promote safer outcomes without placing additional burdens on drivers.
Watch the Full Explanation
We recently covered this topic in detail on Airing of GRIEVEances, where we walk through the law, insurance practices, and safety considerations step by step.
How Nylund’s Collision Center Helps Protect Families
After an accident, your vehicle is more than transportation – it’s part of your family’s safety system. At Nylund’s Collision Center, we focus on manufacturer-correct repairs, proper documentation, and transparency so our customers can make informed decisions with confidence.
If you’ve been in a collision and have questions about repairs, safety systems, or next steps, we’re here to help.
Final Thought
Colorado’s new car seat law isn’t about creating new penalties. It’s about making sure safety equipment is treated like the critical protective system it is – and that families aren’t forced to compromise due to cost or confusion.
Knowing your rights before you need them can make all the difference.
Resources:
Colorado Child Passenger Safety Law