What You Need to Know

Once your child passes the Safety Belt Fit Test, require him or her to use safety belts in a back seat on every ride, whether or not you are there. A lap and shoulder belt provides the best protection to your child and helps to maintain the correct seating position.

SAFETY BELTS

• Move children from booster seats to safety belts in a back seat only after the child passes the Safety Belt Fit Test in every vehicle. Return your child to a booster seat if the safety belt does not fit perfectly.

• Use the Safety Belt Fit Test on any child you transport in your car.

• Ensure that all kids sit upright when using safety belts. Never let them lean against windows or car doors or lie down. Never put the shoulder belt under the child's arm or behind the child's back.

• Tell every driver who transports your child that safety belt use is a must when your child is in their vehicle.

• Teach your child to use a safety belt in a back seat in every vehicle he or she uses. This is most important when the child rides in vehicles driven by family and friends.

• Wear your safety belt correctly every time you are in a car. Children learn from adult role models.

• Get help with your child's seat belt by contacting a Safe Kids coalition near you.

Safety Belt Fit Test

• 1 - Have your child sit all the way back on the vehicle seat. Do his or her knees bend at the front edge of the seat? If they bend naturally, go to #2. If they don't, return to the booster seat.
  

• 2 - Buckle the lap and shoulder belt. Be sure the lap belt lies on the upper legs or hips. If it does, go to #3. If it lies on the stomach, return to the booster seat.
  

• 3 - Be sure the shoulder belt rests on the shoulder or collarbone. If it does, go to #4. If it's on the face or neck, return to the booster seat. Never put the shoulder belt under the child's arm or behind the child's back.
  

• 4 - Check whether your child maintains the correct seating position for as long as you are in the car. If your child slouches or shifts positions so the safety belt touches the face, neck or stomach, return your child to the booster seat.