Friendly Reminders Of Child Safety Laws During Baby Safety Month

There is nothing sweeter than placing your newborn baby in her comfortable car seat to take her first ride home from the hospital. A sleeping baby in the backseat of your car can be music to new parents and during Baby Safety Month we want to make sure that your baby is safe in that car all the way home and on any other car trips you take once you bring that precious bundle of joy home.

Unfortunately, one of the most common causes of death for children between the ages of zero and 12 years old is getting into a car accident. A New Haven auto accident involving a young child is one of the most heart wrenching things to even think about, but it is important to talk about so you and your child are protected as they go through their young lives.

When you’re thinking about how to protect your child when they are riding in the car with you it is important for you to understand how to properly install car seats and boosters seats at various stages of your child’s life. To do this, you may wish to speak with an expert installer or your local police station who may be able to provide guidance. You don’t have to do everything on your own to protect your young child, after all, it takes a village.

As important as it is to properly install a car seat or a booster seat, it is equally important to know what the laws are surrounding your child and when it is legal to transition them from one car seat to the next and then eventually out of car seats all together. Connecticut law clearly states that the following ages and weights are when you are expected to have your child in certain car seats.

1.) Children under two years old: Those children who are under the age of two and weigh 30 lbs. or less should be traveling in a rear facing car seat.

2.) Children between the ages of two and five years old: If your child is in this age range OR weighs less than 40 lbs. they should be in a child restraint that includes a five point harness.

3.) Five to eight year olds: When your child is starting to grow up a little bit and is in between this age range OR between 40-60lbs. you will have a choice of either having her/him in a booster seat or a five point harness.

4.) Eight years old or older AND weighs 60 lbs. or more: Once your child reaches BOTH of these thresholds they can be transitioned into a typical seat belt, unless you are more comfortable keeping them in a booster seat.

If you are a parent your #1 job is to keep your child safe and free from dangerous activities. You wouldn’t think riding in the car could be one of those dangerous activities, but if it leads to a New Haven auto accident and your child is not properly restrained you could be putting her/him in a whole lot of danger. It is also important to follow these rules because if you do not and you are found to be out of compliance with these child safety laws there are no warnings, on your first and second offense you will be required to take a Child Passenger Safety Class.

It is important for all of us to be proactive in understanding the dangers that are presented by having our children in the car with us and take action accordingly. In the event that you or your child is injured in an accident you may need to speak with an attorney who has experience handling situations like this. Contact our office and one of our experienced attorneys will review your situation and work with you to protect your long-term interests.