A change in Michigan’s law went into effect July 1, 2008, for child car seat and booster seat regulations. The Michigan law requires children to ride in booster seats until they reach their eighth birthday or until they reach 4 feet 9 inches tall, whichever comes first. Along with the new law, violators could face a ticket and fine of at least $65.00.
For some time, the previous law required children four years old and under, to be properly secured in a car seat. After the age of four years, children were allowed to transition to the standard vehicle seat belts. The change comes from continued research and traffic statistics related to child injury during traffic accidents. It is believed that any child under the 4 foot 9 inch would not be properly protected as the seat belts are most effective for adults and do not fit a child’s frame properly. Booster seats help keep the shoulder and lap belts in the proper positions on a child’s body which reduces the risk of injury, according to Safe Kids Michigan.
In the state of Michigan, there are various agencies that offer child car seat safety inspections and information as to which booster or car seat that is most appropriate for your child. Many fire departments and hospitals have excellent resources and hold events to inspect and teach the proper techniques of harnessing the seats for optimum safety. When my own son transferred from the traditional child car seat and graduated to a booster seat, I visited my local agency for proper fitting. I was informed of the appropriate installation, which I incorrectly installed, and was tutored on the positioning and tension required of the seat belts while the child is stationed in the seat. The experience was completely educational and could possibly save my son’s life. I sincerely hope each parent takes the time to buckle up for safety and properly strap their children in. It could save their life. Why take the chance?
To find out more about Michigan’s new law, visit Safe Kids Michigan at www.michigansafekids.org or the Michigan State Police website which is linked from the State of Michigan web page. Our children’s safety should be our top priority. Proper installation of the child booster and car seat is not always an easy task. A twisted seat belt or loose lap belt will not ensure your child’s safety and could possibly do more damage than good. The same rule goes for older and used car seats and booster seats. When in doubt, check with an expert and purchase a new unit. Booster seats range in price from approximately $15.00 for a small booster seat with no back up to $100.00 or more for the high backed booster seat, depending on the type and style you want. It is also an important key factor to check all recall lists pertaining to safety seat recalls. Please take a moment to contact one of the agencies mentioned above to learn more. www.michigansafekids.org and for more information on recommended car seats and child booster seats, please visit www.nhtsa.gov.
