The LATCH system consists of Lower Anchors and Tethers. What are these components?

Lower Anchors:

These consist of a long strap with connectors on either end, or two shorter straps with connectors on each end. Usually the connectors are jaw-like grippers or hooks. They connect the restraint to metal hooks on the vehicle seat.

The Lower Anchors can be used for both forward and rear-facing seats, and allow for fast and almost foolproof installation in most vehicles. However, these anchors do add additional weight and cost to the seat.

Potential Misuse: Users must be sure they pull the strap(s) snug. Users must also take care to switch the routing path of the belt(s) when switching a rear-facing seat to forward-facing (check your seat's manual for routing details.)

Tethers:

The tether strap connects the head of the child restraint to an anchor in the back of the vehicle. Use of the tether is standard on most forward-facing child restraints. It can also be used on some rear-facing restraints.

A tether strap decreases the amount of distance a child's head will move forward during a crash (head excursion) by as much as 8 inches (Consumer Reports, 1998). The less a head moves forward, the less likely it is to hit hard structures in the vehicle, such as the back of the front seat. Use of a tether strap also reduces the amount of acceleration and how much force is applied to the neck during a crash. Real world studies indicate use of the tether virtually eliminates serious neck injuries.

Before September 1999, all restraints were required to pass a single head excursion limit of 32 inches. After September 1999, restraints must also pass another, more stringent head excursion limit of 28 inches. Most seats require the use of the tether in order to meet this more stringent requirement.

<< Prev - Next >>