What is the child passenger safety law in New York State?

1.The law requires children under the age of four to be restrained in a federally approved car seat when riding in a motor vehicle [Section 1229-c(1) ], NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law].

2.If the weight of a child under the age of 4 exceeds 40 pounds, the child may be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system, allowing the child to use a booster seat. Children ages 4, 5,and 6 must be properly secured in an appropriate child restraint system, one for which your child meets the weight and height recommendations of the child restraint manufacturer. [Section 1229-c(1)], NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law] A child safety seat or harness/vest or booster seat may be used.

3.The vehicle's safety belts are not defined as a child restraint system under this law, as safety belts are not designed for children under 4'9" and therefore, do not protect young children.

New Jersey's car seat law requires that children up to age 8 or 80 pounds ride in an appropriate car seat or child safety booster seat. Additionally, New Jersey car seat law requires that children under age 8 ride in the rear seat of the vehicle, unless the vehicle has no rear seat. New Jersey also requires children age 8 to 18 to wear a seat belt, regardless of weight.