Introduction
Car accidents are a leading cause of death among children in the United States. To help keep kids safe on the road, every state has laws regarding child car seats. In New Hampshire, these laws are designed to ensure that children are properly restrained while riding in a car. This article will outline the NH car seat laws and provide guidance for parents and caregivers.
Age and Weight Requirements
Children under the age of 18 must wear a seat belt while riding in a car in New Hampshire. However, for younger children, a car seat or booster seat is required. Children must be secured in a car seat or booster seat until they are either 57 inches tall or weigh 80 pounds. Once a child reaches these milestones, they can start using a regular seat belt.
Types of Car Seats
There are several types of car seats that can be used to keep children safe while riding in a car. Infants and toddlers should be secured in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least two years old or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the manufacturer. Once a child outgrows a rear-facing seat, they can move to a forward-facing car seat with a harness. Children should remain in a forward-facing car seat until they are at least four years old or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the manufacturer. After that, they can move to a booster seat, which should be used until they are 57 inches tall or weigh 80 pounds.
Installation and Use
It is important to install car seats correctly to ensure that they provide maximum protection for children. Parents and caregivers should carefully read the instructions that come with the car seat and follow them closely. Car seats should be installed in the back seat of the car and should be secured tightly. The harness straps should fit snugly around the child, and the chest clip should be positioned at armpit level. Parents and caregivers should never use a car seat that has been in an accident or that is past its expiration date.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Parents and caregivers who fail to comply with the NH car seat laws can face fines and other penalties. The first offense carries a fine of $50, while subsequent offenses can result in fines of up to $1000. In addition, parents and caregivers who violate the law can have points added to their driving record, which can affect their ability to drive and their insurance rates.
Conclusion
The NH car seat laws are designed to keep children safe while riding in a car. Parents and caregivers should familiarize themselves with these laws and ensure that they are following them correctly. By using the appropriate car seat or booster seat and installing it correctly, parents and caregivers can help protect children from injury or death in the event of a car accident.
