Every state in the U.S. has a law to help protect our children when they’re on the road.  These laws have to do with their car seat safety, safety belt safety, and can even make the difference of you getting traffic violations or fines.

If you live in the state of Washington, do you know the car seat laws you must follow?  Since each state varies on their car seat laws, it’s important you know the laws for the actual state you live in.  So, if you don’t already know Washington’s laws, continue reading below.

Washington Car Seat Laws:

• If your child is 7 years or younger, and/or is less than 4’9″, they must remain in a child car seat.
• Also, if your child is between the ages of 8-15, they must be strapped with a safety belt.
• Since the airbag can endanger your child if they are too young, the state of Washington says your child must remain seated in the back seat of the car if they’re 12 years or younger.
• If you don’t follow these laws, it may result in a fine of up to $125 for the first offense.

NOTES:

• Babies should always stay in the rear-facing position for as long as possible.
• Never buy a used car seat because it can have several dangers like going past the expiration date, recalls, or it may even have a history of accidents.  It is never OK to buy a car seat used.  You may be able to save money, but your child’s safety should never be compromised!
• Always make sure your child fits their car seat’s recommendations properly for the height and weight.

This is just brief summary for Washington’s car seat laws.  Car seat laws can and may change over time, so it’s your responsibility as a parent or guardian to check this important information often.