According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some 59 percent of car seats being used by American families are either not fitted properly or are the wrong size.

To raise awareness on the issue and help educate parents and caregivers on how to choose the right seat and fit, the NHTSA on Wednesday launched a national campaign complete with public information films.

"Buckling up a child correctly and in the right seat is the best protection any parent can do to see their child walk away unharmed from a car crash," said Dr Mark Rosekind, NHTSA administrator.

Every 33 seconds, a child under the age of 13 is involved in a car crash in the US according to the most recent Department of Transportation figures. The new campaign, which will air on TV, radio and in print as well as via social channels will also provide help and guidance for parents trying to make sense of the very different types of car seat on the market.

"The right car seat can keep kids safe, and that's what we all want for our children," said Ad Council President and CEO Lisa Sherman. "It's not enough for parents to think they know which car seat is right for their child; they need to know for sure."

To learn more about choosing and using the right car seat, the NHTSA has set up a dedicated web portal.