The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children under 2 ride in a rear-facing seat, older children use a booster seat until 4’9″ and 8 years old, and children under 12 not ride in the front seat. Proper car seat use reduces the risk of injury and death in car accidents. State laws and regulations vary, so it’s important to check with state regulatory offices.
Car seat guidelines are continually reviewed and revised based on the results of ongoing research to improve the safety of children when traveling in moving vehicles. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released an updated set of car seat guidelines in April 2011. It advised that children under the age of 2 should ride in a rear-facing seat and older children They must ride in a booster seat until they are 4 years old. foot 9 inches tall (approximately 1.45 meters) and at least 8 years old. Additionally, children 12 years of age or younger must not be allowed to ride in the front seat of a vehicle. The car seat guidelines issued by the AAP are not always the same as the child restraint laws established by individual states in the United States.
Safe car seat use has been shown to be effective in preventing child deaths in motor vehicle crashes. Research has shown that the risk of injury and fatality is greater for unrestrained children than for those who are properly restrained when involved in a crash. The proper use of child restraint devices is also important to reduce the risk of injury. Following proper car seat guidelines and installing and using car seats correctly is essential to ensure the safety of children. Certified inspectors, often located at local fire and police stations, can ensure the proper and safe installation of car seats.
Car seat manufacturers specify height and weight requirements, and these measurements should be used as supplemental guidelines in conjunction with applicable laws. There are different types of car seats for different ages and sizes. The most important guideline is to always select a size and age appropriate car seat. Parents are urged to read the car seat manual for this information.
All 50 states in the US have laws and regulations related to child restraint devices, but not all states have laws specifically related to booster seats and seat belt use. Approved child restraint devices are required for all children traveling in a vehicle in the US The age at which children can use adult seat belts can vary by state. Car seat guidelines can also vary from state to state. These variations mean it’s important to check with the appropriate state regulatory office for unique laws related to car seat safety, in addition to following manufacturer specifications and AAP recommendations.
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