Seat Belts

Seat belts keep passengers properly restrained to prevent being ejected from the vehicle during a collision. Seat belts interact with front airbags as well, so wearing correctly is important. Whereas the lap-belt flat on the lap with the shoulder belt crossing the center of the chest, between the shoulder and neck. 

Once a child passenger reaches the height of their booster seats, they will progress into using a vehicle seat belt. To make sure they are ready, use the 5-Step Test (below).

Use: Use a vehicle seat below for children who can pass the "5-Step Test " usually between ages 10-12. 
​The 5-Step Test ©SafetyBeltSafe USA

1. Does your child sit back with their bottom against the vehicle seat?
2. Does your child’s knees bend over the edge of the vehicle seat?
3. Does the vehicle lap belt lay flat on the top of your child's legs, touching their thighs?
4. Does the vehicle shoulder belt touch your child's shoulder between their neck and arm?
5. Can your child stay seated in this position for the entire trip?   

For any “no” answer, your child still needs a booster seat to be properly restrained and a safe passenger. If "yes" to all questions, your child can use the vehicle seat belt. Remember to test your child when seated in different vehicles. ​
 
The video below, published by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, shows why all passengers, including those in the back seat need to be buckled (restrained) properly.

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Rear-facing

Forward-facing

Booster

Car Seats (Home)

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