Booster Seat Safety Guidelines

Just putting your child in a booster seat will not necessarily save her life. There are certain guidelines depending on the age and weight of your child. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 80% of child restraints are used incorrectly. Most Highway Patrol offices offer free checks to make sure you are using the correct child safety seat and have it properly installed.

  1. Rear Facing Seats

    • A rear facing seat is the first child safety seat your child will use. This seat should be used from birth until your child turns one and weighs at least 20 pounds. The seat should be secured in the backseat of your vehicle and face the rear. You can use an infant-only seat or a convertible seat at this stage.

    Forward Facing Seats

    • The next seat your child will use is a forward facing seat. Use this seat for your child from the age of one up until they turn four and weigh at least 40 pounds. For safety, the seat should still be in the backseat of your vehicle but can face the front. There are five types of car seats that can be used as forward facing: built-in seats, travel vests, convertible seats, forward-facing toddler seats and combination forward-facing/booster seats.

    Booster Seats

    • At the age of four, your child can move into a booster seat. They will remain in this seat until they are eight years old or four feet, nine inches tall. A booster seat puts your child at a height where the seat belt fits them properly. You can use a high-back or backless booster seat.

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