in the good old days . . . . many more children DIED in car accidents, due to not being restrained safely.

and yes, i'm here to tell the tale, (born before 1970), but that is more good luck (and my mother not having a driving license, we walked everywhere, except rare ocassions on the weekend, when dad took us out in his car).

people do get used to change.
in the good old days, no-one wore bike helmets. Now everyone does. Including people from older generations.

in the good old days, few recycled. Now councils provide everyone with recycle bins and most people use them. Including people from older generations.

so this "being from older gen" excuse does not wash with me.

OP, you did the right thing. No-one will protect your child, like you do. Shame on those people for pressuring you to put your kids at risk.