In July, CVMC and Safe Kids celebrated the success of a community child
passenger seat diversion program which offers drivers the opportunity
be granted a one-time only dismissal of a citation for violating child
safety seat laws. CVMC is the lead agency for Safe Kids Catawba County,
who has partnered with the Office of the District Attorney for Catawba
County to continue this ongoing program.
“We are thrilled at the community response and dramatic increase
in participation of our child safety seat inspection program since the
implementation of the diversion program last July,” said Kayla Hefner,
Safe Kids Coordinator for Catawba County. “To date, 90 parents and
caregivers have received education through our program, resulting, not
only in the dismissal of their citation, but also the enhanced transportation
safety of children in Catawba County.”
If you have received a child seat violation, make an appointment at least
3 weeks before your court date with a child passenger safety technician
or stop by Safe Kids monthly child seat-check the first Tuesday of every
month from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Valley Hills Mall. This event and
additional seat-check opportunities will give violators of the NC Child
Passenger Safety Law (G.S. 20‑137.1) the chance to have their safety seat
properly installed and have a one time dismissal of a related traffic
fine. The next scheduled event is from 1:30 to 3:30 pm on August 4, July
in the lower level of the parking deck near Belk at Valley Hills Mall.
During this event, there will be music, food and fun summer activities for kids.
“The District Attorney’s Office has been proud to partner with
local law enforcement agencies and Safe Kids in the Child Passenger Safety
Diversion program. This program over the last year has increased awareness
about child safety seat regulations and has helped keep Catawba County
children safe. I am proud of this program and look forward to continuing
our relationship with Safe Kids,” said James C. Gaither, Jr. District Attorney.
Seat checks are also open to anyone looking to make sure their child is
riding safely. Please contact Kayla Hefner by calling (828) 485-2300 ext.
6204 for more information or to set up an appointment.