Rules You Need to Know

• Every person on every ride must use a car seat, booster seat or safety belt that’s right for his or her weight and height.

• All children under age 13 ride in a back seat.

• Know where the airbags are in your vehicles. They can be in the front seat, on the roofline or in a back seat. Some airbags can be turned off.

• Follow manufacturers’ instructions for car seats, booster seats and vehicle safety at all times.

• Do not allow your child to ride in vehicles where drivers or passengers do not use safety restraints.

• Don’t share safety belts. Use one safety belt for each person in the car.

• Weigh and measure children often to be sure they are using the right safety device.

• Install car seats using a locked vehicle safety belt or LATCH system. Read and follow all labels and instructions.

• Never use car seats purchased from yard sales, secondhand stores or flea markets.

• Never let children ride on laps or in cargo areas or pickup truck beds.

Always Remember

Remember, your child is counting on you to protect him or her! Make sure your child always rides safely in your car, and prepare older children to “think safety” if they are ever in a car where no car seat or booster seat is available.

Make sure they know how to protect themselves by sitting in a back seat and using a safety belt. Fifty percent of children who died in 2004 in motor vehicles were completely unrestrained. Don't let your child become a statistic.

For the best protection, on every ride use a car seat or booster seat, based on your child's age, weight and height. And remember to buckle yourself every time, in every vehicle. Your child will do as you do!

Safety In and Around Cars

Also visit Safety In and Around Cars.