When you’re traveling with children, safety should always come first—especially on the road. Whether you’re heading out for a quick errand or a long road trip, making sure your child is properly secured in the car is not just smart—it’s the law.
New Jersey has specific child car seat regulations designed to protect young passengers. These laws are based on a child’s age, height, and weight, not just their age alone. Understanding the requirements can help you avoid fines and, more importantly, keep your child safe.
Let’s break it down.
New Jersey Car Seat Laws: The Basics
According to New Jersey law:
- Children under age eight (8) and shorter than 57 inches must ride in the rear seat using a car seat or booster seat.
- If your vehicle doesn’t have a back seat, you may place the child in the front seat—but never in a rear-facing seat if the front passenger airbag is active.
- Fines for non-compliance range from $50 to $75.
- Once a child is eight (8) years or older or taller than 57 inches, they can use the regular seat belt.
A Closer Look: Safety Recommendations by Age and Size
In addition to New Jersey’s legal requirements, both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offer safety recommendations that align with state laws:
- Infants and Toddlers (Under Age two (2) and Under 30 lbs.):
- Must ride in a rear-facing car seat with a 5-point harness.
- Toddlers and Preschoolers (Under Age four (4) and Under 40 lbs.):
- Start in a rear-facing seat until they outgrow it.
- Then move to a forward-facing seat with a 5-point harness.
- Children Under Age eight (8) and Shorter Than 57 Inches:
- Once they outgrow the forward-facing seat, switch to a belt-positioning booster seat.
Important Notes:
- Never place a rear-facing car seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with an active airbag. If necessary, make sure the airbag is deactivated.
- When installing a car seat or booster, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and check your vehicle’s owner manual.
The Impact of Child Car Seats
Car seats aren’t just a legal requirement—they save lives.
According to the NHTSA, child restraints have saved more than 11,600 lives of children under five (5) years old since 1975. Yet despite their importance, a startling 48% of car seats are installed incorrectly. That’s why it’s crucial to double-check your setup or have it inspected by a certified technician.
Quick Tips for Parents:
- Check both your child’s height and weight regularly—they grow fast!
- Register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive safety updates or recall notices.
- Many local police stations or fire departments offer free car seat safety checks.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring your child is properly restrained while traveling in New Jersey isn’t just about following the law—it’s about peace of mind. Taking the time to use the right seat in the right way can make all the difference in an emergency.
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Get in touch with Cooper Levenson’s Personal Injury Practice today if you need assistance with an auto accident.
The content of this post should not be construed as legal advice. You should consult a lawyer concerning your particular situation and any specific legal question you may have.
Kathleen F. Beers, Esq. handles personal injury law and can be reached at kbeers@cooperlevenson.com or (609) 572-7570. Visit our blog at https://blog.cooperlevenson.com/ for more information.