What is the appropriate safety guideline for a newborn's car seat placement?

The appropriate safety guideline for a newborn's car seat placement is to secure the infant in the middle back seat in a rear-facing infant safety seat. This is because the back seat is the safest location for children under the age of 13, as it significantly reduces the risk of injury in case of a collision.

Furthermore, using a rear-facing car seat is crucial for infants because it provides the best support for their head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. Infants have proportionally larger heads and underdeveloped neck muscles, making them more vulnerable to injury. A rear-facing position allows the seat to absorb the impact and cradle the infant's body.

Placing the car seat in the middle back seat is recommended as it is generally the furthest point from potential side-impact collisions, adding an extra layer of safety during travel. This practice aligns with pediatric and safety guidelines that emphasize the importance of secure and appropriate placement of car seats to protect young children.