Child restraint system (CRS) can protect children in the event of crash and reduce the severity of injuries. As such, it
is crucial to understand the prevalence of CRS usage and knowledge attributes on CRS usage among drivers. This
study aims to assessdrivers’ knowledge on CRS usage.A semi-structured questionnaire was developed and pilot tested
to verify its validity and reliability. The questionnaireaddressesdrivers’ knowledge about CRS currently available in
the Malaysian market, the types of restraints used and views on fitting restraints to passenger vehicles. Seventy four
percentfrom 500 respondents cited that they are usingor theyhave used CRS,64% knowabout CRS and its function, and
43% areawareof ISOFIX. In short, majority of the respondents are aware of CRS use and functions. Awareness and
education program should berigorously introduced to public towards the implementation of the CRS law.
Pedestrians' fatality trend in road crashes has been improving in recent years though it remains third in rank behind
motorcyclists and car occupants. Based on the statistics, young pedestrians were the most affected group and the
commonest injury regions were head and legs. Pedestrian crashes occurred primarily in rural areas and straight roads
and at low light environment, and often involve cars and motorcycles. In addition to existing issues of careless and
illegal crossing practices, there are potential new hazards face by pedestrian, which are mobile electronic device use
and electric vehicle, especially when crossing roads. Road safety programs and interventions shall consider these new
issues.
Children are much more likely than adults to get serious injuries in car crashes due to their softer bones, weaker neck muscle and fragile bodies. Child restraint system (CRS) can help in reduce injury and prevent fatality in the event of a crash. Thus the aim of this paper is to gauge the prevalence of CRS usage among guardians of children age below 11 years old. A survey to addressed guardians knowledge on CRS usage, practice and their views on fitting child restraints system to their vehicles were carried out among parents and carers who are caring children aged 11 years old and below. Seventy-four percent (74%) out of 500 respondents cited they have used CRS, however only 40% of them is currently using CRS with their children. Respondent in Kuala Lumpur and younger guardians reported twice likely to use CRS. In addition, graduate respondents are 1.5 times more likely to use CRS for their children. In conclusion, high incorrect usage rate and understanding of the CRS could promote additional injury towards the children in a car crash. Many initiatives could be introduced before the implementation of the CRS law in Malaysia such as awareness, community-based programs and CRS clinics that aim to guide guardians on the correct and effective way of installing the CRS device in their car.