As a parent, our child’s safety should always be our #1 priority.  Daily activities like running around the house, swimming in the pool, and riding in the car can all be dangerous if their safety isn’t a concern.

So, taking steps to enhance their safety everyday is crucial.  You can start by reviewing your state’s car seat laws.  These laws vary from state to state, and can make the different of keeping your child safe, getting a fine, and/or even points on your record.  What are South Dakota’s car seat laws?  Continue reading below to find out.

South Dakota Car Seat Laws:

• If your child is 4 years or younger, and/or weighs less than 40 lbs, they must be in a child car seat.
• Even if your child is more than 40 lbs, they must wear a safety belt of some kind if they are between the ages of 5-17 years old.
• If you fail to follow these laws, it may result in a fine of $25 for the first offense.

NOTES:

• It’s always best to keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible.  You should not turn them forward-facing until you get the OK from your child’s pediatrician.
• Once your child has gone past the weight and height requirements for their age, they must be upgraded to a new car seat.
• Never buy a used car seat.  Even if it saves you money, your child’s safety should never be compromised.  You don’t know if it’s been in an accident, if it’s expired, or even worse, if it’s been recalled due to unsafe conditions.

As you can see, there are a few different car seat laws you must follow if you live in the state of South Dakota.  Follow them, keep your child safe, and keep your nose clean with the law.

This is just brief summary of South Dakota’s car seat laws, keep in mind they may change overtime, and it is your responsibilty to check them on occasion.