Are child restraints required for children in vehicles?

• A. Yes, children must be restrained in appropriate child safety seats or boosters
• B. No restrictions
• C. Only if over a certain age
• D. Only on long trips

Answer: (A)

In vehicles, children must be restrained using the appropriate safety seat or booster every time the vehicle is moving. This is essential safety practice, because a properly fitted seat or booster keeps the child correctly positioned and distributes crash forces safely, dramatically reducing the risk of serious injury or death compared to using an adult seat belt alone.

Typically, children start in a rear-facing infant seat, progress to a forward-facing seat with a harness, then move to a booster as they grow, and finally ride with an adult seat belt once the belt fits correctly across the shoulder and lap. Laws do vary by location, so it’s important to know the specific age, height, and weight requirements in your area.