(HealthDay News) -- Car seats help protect your baby from serious injury in the event of an accident, so it's important to make sure they're correctly installed and used.

The Cleveland Clinic offers these suggestions:

• Always put your baby in a car seat any time you travel in the car. Make sure the seat is properly installed and used, according to its instruction manual.
• Before baby is born, make sure you know how to properly place, remove and use the seat.
• Place the seat in a rear-facing position in the middle back seat of the car. Make sure the fit is tight.
• Don't buy a used car seat, or use a seat beyond its expiration date.
• Never leave your baby in the car unattended.
• Contact a car seat inspector if you have any questions or concerns about proper installation.