Today, pedal cars are loved by children and adults alike. Reproduction metal versions are very durable, so they can be passed from generation to generation. Most replicas have been built with safety in mind, but even with these modifications, safety should be your first priority when your children are playing with any toy.
Keep in mind that even reproduction cars with modern safety features can be dangerous if you’re not aware of the proper safety precautions. If you have a real vintage car, without modern safety features, pay special attention when your children are playing with it. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
If you are buying a pedal car for your children to use, be sure that the one you choose is safe. While real vintage cars can be great collectibles, they may not have modern safety features, and may include lead-based paint. If you are mostly interested in a classic toy for your children, consider a reproduction model with safety features in mind.
Pedal cars are, by design, very close to the ground. Be aware of your surroundings, especially vehicles, as they may not be able to see the your child, especially when backing up. Make sure your neighbors are aware that there are children playing.
These cars do not have brakes, so do not play with them on slopes. Although they are foot-powered, on a hill it is possible to get the car going too fast to stop it safely. Since your child’s legs are the brakes for the pedal car, stay away from hills. Also avoid open bodies of water or any other dangerous areas into which your child could steer themselves.
Be sure that your child wears appropriate clothing when riding in a their pedal toy. Helmets and shoes should be worn at all times, and loose clothing should be secured. Given enough speed, or if driving on sloping ground they can tip over, and loose items can get caught in the drive chain, much like pant legs can get caught in the chain of a bicycle. There are no floorboards, and pedal cars are foot powered, so shoes will protect your childs feet from injury.
Do not push the toy cars. Because there is no floor and the child’s feet dangle between chassis rails, they can get tangled in the pedals if you push the car. The faster the car is moving, the faster the child’s legs must move in order to keep up with the pedals. Avoid pushing the car, so that your child’s feet can keep up with the speed of the pedals.
Reproduction toy cars are a fun classic toy, but be sure your child is safe when playing with them. Always supervise children riding in them. Ride-on toys are great fun for children in every generation. Modern versions are designed very well, so they can be passed down to your grandchildren once your children have outgrown them. Please take care when playing with pedal cars, and keep safety in mind.
Tags: car safety, pedal car, pedal car safety
