The state of Virginia has established regulations that require children to be securely restrained in a booster seat until they reach the age of eight. This law aims to enhance the safety of children traveling in vehicles by reducing the risk of injury during accidents. Booster seats achieve this by positioning the child in a proper position within the vehicle's seatbelt, ensuring that the seatbelt lays correctly across the child's hips and chest.
Effective Date
The new booster seat law went into effect on July 1, 2019. This change was made to align with the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which suggest that children ride in booster seats until they reach a height or weight limit of four feet nine inches. Prior to this, Virginia's child safety seat law was based solely on age, with no consideration for weight or height.
Compliance
Compliance with the booster seat law is enforced primarily on the basis of age. Children must be within the age range of eight years old and must use a booster seat that has been approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation. It is important for parents to note that the law does not mandate the use of a specific type of booster seat, only that it must fit the child properly.
Penalties
In the event of non-compliance, violators may be issued a $50 fine for each occurrence. A second or subsequent violation can result in a civil penalty of up to $500. Furthermore, any individual who transports a child who is exempt from the booster seat law due to medical necessity but without a written statement of exemption may be subject to a $20 civil penalty for each occurrence.
Safety Benefits
Booster seats play a crucial role in preventing injuries in motor vehicle accidents. These seats are designed to distribute crash forces throughout the child's body, particularly important for younger children whose bodies are more vulnerable. By properly installing a booster seat and ensuring the child is properly harnessed, the risk of injury is significantly reduced.
Resources
For assistance with Virginia's booster seat law and to obtain the latest information, contact the Virginia Department of Health. For low-income families facing financial challenges, there are programs available to provide financial assistance for the purchase of safety seats. To learn more, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov.
##Virginia's booster seat law is a proactive approach to ensuring the safety of children in vehicles. By enforcing the requirement for children to ride in booster seats until they reach a suitable age, the state helps to protect children from injury and prevent tragic accidents. violators may be subject to fines of $50 for each occurrence. To avoid fines and to ensure your child's safety, please adhere to the regulations of the Virginia Booster Seat Law.
