Taking a Cab in NYC With a Toddler

When you need to get somewhere fast in New York City, a taxi is often the way to go. When you have a toddler with you, this can pose a dilemma: You don't want to navigate the crowds to get on mass transportation, yet you also worry about the safety of taking a cab with a toddler, since child seats are not required in taxis. You can take a cab with your toddler, but you should be mindful of the risks.

  1. Car Seat Laws

    • New York state law dictates that children must be in a federally approved child-safety seat when they are riding in a car until they are 4 years old. However, according to the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission, taxis and other for-hire vehicles are exempt from this rule. That means that taxis are not required to provide car seats, nor are children required to be strapped into one when they are riding in a taxi.

    Bring Your Own Seat

    • Though taxis will not provide a car seat for you, the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission says that passengers are encouraged to bring their own car seats and install them for the ride. Carrying a car seat around with you just in case you need one for a taxi ride can be cumbersome. However, some convertible car seats are available that double as a stroller. You can push your tot around in the stroller while you are running errands, and fold the wheels down to turn it into a car seat for your taxi ride.

    Other Safety Measures

    • The NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission says that children under 7 are permitted to ride on an adult's lap and encourages all passengers to wear their seat belts while riding in a taxi. You should not strap the seat belt over you and your toddler, since the belt may not rest properly on your toddler's chest and hips and could cause serious injuries in the event of an accident. NY Metro Parents also recommends watching the driver's behavior closely and speaking up if he speeds or drives recklessly.

    Precautions

    • NY Metro Parents recommends that you never get in a taxicab that does not have seat belts. You should also beware of cabs that have sharp edges in the passenger area, which could cause injuries even in a minor fender bender. The site recommends taking mass transit, if possible, since you can keep your toddler strapped into a stroller while you ride.

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