Using Naturalistic Driving Study Data to Understand Child Vehicle Occupant Behaviour when Travelling in Child Restraint Systems

Children’s behaviour when travelling in child restraint systems (CRS) may affect injury risk. The aim of this research was to use naturalistic driving study (NDS) video data to explore child vehicle occupant behaviour and out-of-position (OOP) status (i.e., head position in relation to the protective structure of CRS). A total of 414 trips and five epochs per trip were analysed. This paper provides descriptive analyses of children’s CRS use, head position, interactions and behavioural affect. Results may propose additional seating positions and postures for future crash testing of CRS, to help reduce injury risk in these less typical user positions.