If you are a parent, grandparent, or caregiver for a child or baby in Connecticut, you should be informed about what the state’s car seat safety laws are. The goal of these laws is to protect children in the event of a car accident. Much research has been done that proves the effectiveness of these seats in reducing the impact of crashes on children.
Safe Kids Connecticut outlines what the state requires for car seat restraints. It also explains what additional recommendations you may want to consider. Any driver found to be in violation of the laws may be ordered to pay a fine and also to participate in a child safety education course. If you have a baby, you are required to use a rear-facing car set until that baby reaches 12 months of age and at least 20 pounds in weight. Both of these criteria must be met in order to legally use any other form of restraint. While this is the law, it is recommended that infants remain in a rear-facing position until they are two years old or at the upper limit for weight and height of the rear-facing seat.
Upon moving to a forward-facing position, your toddler is best kept in a full car seat until he or she grows to 40 pounds. At this point, a booster seat is allowed with the use of both shoulder and lap belts. Children are required to use booster seats until they are at least 60 pounds and seven years old.
This information is not intended to provide legal advice but general information about the laws and recommendations for car seat safety in Connecticut.
