Do I need to replace my car seats?

[LondonQueen]

A few months ago I crashed my car, the car seats were in the car but thankfully my kids were at school/nursery. The car was a total write off as it was quite an impact. (about 50mph into a wooded area)
I have just read a post on facebook about car seats needing to be replaced after a crash as the structure can be weakened. Do I need to replace them even though they weren't in use? Panicking that they're not safe

Yes, you need to replace them.

Yep. Insurance will probably cover it.

Yes as there could be structural damage to the seat which may make it less safe/secure should an accident occur with your children in them.

Yes, they need to be replaced. They're only good for one crash.

Yes. They need to be replaced immediately.

Yes any impact could weaken the structure, invisible to the naked eye.

I wouldn’t risk my childrens safety/life over the price of a car seat, just not worth the risk and you’d never forgive yourself if they failed to save your children in another crash.
you can claim the cost from the car insurance, unless the claims been dealt with by now, in which case you’ll probably have to pay out for them yourself.

Thanks guys! I had never heard of this until I read the post, I feel a bit naive now.

Even if insurers have paid out. You can go back to them and they will reopen the file.

@needasleep

Even if insurers have paid out. You can go back to them and they will reopen the file.

Good to know, thank you. I'll give them a ring in the morning and see if I can re open the claim. The cost of the car seats aren't the issue, I can't put a price on my children safety.

Yes, as you won't know for sure the seats are still functional under the cover. Insurance will usually cover a token amount, enough to buy a cheaper seat but usually not enough for a well tested and safe seat. Best to ask for cash rather than vouchers, as that will help you have more choice of what to get next.

I'm a bit confused why you thought they weren't in use? If they were in your car, they were in use and likely affected by the crash, isn't this obvious? It really doesn't matter your children weren't sat in them at the time. I am actually pretty shocked anyone would've considered them safe to use after this.