Arkansas Car Seat Requirements: Keeping Little Ones Safe on the Road
Arkansas law mandates that all children under the age of 15 must ride in a car seat or booster seat, depending on their age and weight. Here's a breakdown of the specific requirements:
Children Under 8 Years Old
- Rear-Facing Car Seat: All children under the age of 1 year and weighing less than 20 pounds must ride in a rear-facing car seat.
- Forward-Facing Car Seat: Children between the ages of 1 and 8 years old, and weighing more than 20 pounds, must ride in a forward-facing car seat. This seat should have a harness that is properly secured.
- Booster Seat: Once a child is over 40 pounds and 4'9" tall, they may transition to a booster seat. However, they should continue to ride in a booster seat until they reach 8 years old.
Children 8 Years and Older
Children aged 8 and older can use a seat belt alone, provided they are tall enough to sit comfortably with their knees bent at the edge of the seat and the seat belt crosses their shoulder and chest properly.
Important Considerations
- Car Seat Installation: All car seats must be properly installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and Arkansas law.
- Choosing the Right Car Seat: Always ensure the car seat is appropriate for your child's age, height, and weight. Choose car seats that meet current safety standards and have been tested and certified.
- Car Seat Safety: Regularly check for damage and wear on the car seat and replace it if necessary.
- Placement: Children under 13 should never ride in the front passenger seat due to the risk of airbag deployment.
Remember: The most important thing is to ensure your child is properly secured in a car seat that meets the state's requirements. This will help to protect them in the event of an accident.
For further information and resources, visit the Arkansas Department of Transportation website or consult with your local law enforcement agency.
