What are the key NHTSA guidelines for child passenger safety?
The NHTSA recommends the use of age- and size-appropriate child restraint systems. Here are some key guidelines:
Rear-Facing Car Seats: Infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing car seat until at least age 2 or until they reach the maximum height or weight limit set by the manufacturer. Forward-Facing Car Seats: Once outgrown rear-facing seats, children should use a forward-facing car seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the height or weight limit set by the manufacturer. Booster Seats: Children who exceed the forward-facing car seat limits should use a booster seat until they are big enough to fit properly in a seat belt, typically when they reach 4 feet 9 inches in height and are between 8-12 years old. Seat Belts: When children are old enough and large enough to use seat belts alone, they should always use lap and shoulder belts for optimal protection.
