Car Seats, Booster Seats, and more.

Answers to some common questions about Child Restraint Laws in Ohio.

We often get questions about the ages, weights, heights, and the laws that cover who should be in a car seat or booster seat.  I hope to explain it in a way that makes sense.  Sometimes just pointing someone to the Ohio Revised Code doesn't clear it up as much as we would hope. 

Ohio Revised Code section 4511.81 covers Child Restraint laws.  According to section "A" of the law, a child must be in a child restraint system (car seat) if they meet EITHER of the following criteria:

1. The child is less than 4 years old.
2. The child is less than 40 lbs.

That means that a child could possibly be over 40 lbs, but not yet 4, and still need to be in a car seat. 

Once a Child no longer needs to be in a car seat, they need to be in "booster seat" until they are 8 years old and less than 4'9" tall.  That means a 7 year old who is 4'9" could legally be in a seat belt.  The height is the most important factor.  A booster seat is used to properly position the seat belt on the passenger's body. 

Once a child is 8 years old, but less than 15, they must be in a seat belt at all times.

Hopefully this answers any questions you might have about Child Restraints.   We encourage you to ask questions of us.  Not sure about something?  ASK! 

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