Can I switch my child from the built-in car seat to a regular backseat now?

Pernicious1

I know how frustrating this is.
According to Idaho law;

Children ages 4 to 6 MUST be in an approved booster seat, using both lap and shoulder belts, NEVER with lap belt only. The seat should be located in the rear vehicle seat, facing forward while the lap belt is positioned across the top of childâ€™s thigh and the shoulder belt should be centered across the shoulder and chest.

If she's almost six, you can probably get by with it, if pulled over but it would be taking a chance.

gerlawgoody1

Idaho is way more lax than Illinois. In the link it appears that you are supposed to restrain her until she is six, but have no consequences if you choose the seat belt instead.

You are a good mother to be concerned and research this first :)

Teresa V

they must be 4.9" tall

D.A.M

I agree with "Friendly Stranger". a regular seatbelt, whether lap or shoulder can actually cause severe damage if used on a child who is too small for the specifications for the seat belt.
Maybe you can find a bigger, more comfortable booster seat for your child. There are many different sizes and styles.
If you cant afford one, check with your local health department and/or fire department. Also some hospital organizations should be able to help you out.
Good luck...with love..."D"

Friendly Stranger..

Your child is not eligible to be in a regular lap belt. Below are the qualifications for the weight, height and age for a child to be in a booster seat or a lap belt.

REAR FACING SEATS in the back seat from birth to at least 1 year old and at least 20 pounds.

FORWARD-FACING TODDLER SEATS in the back seat from age 1 and 20 pounds to about age 4 and 40 pounds

BOOSTER SEATS in the back seat from about age 4 to at least age 8, unless 4'9" tall.

SAFETY BELTS at age 8 and older or taller than 4'9". All children age 12 and under should ride in the back seat.

Carl Gee

Yes, I think you are about 2 years late, but better late than never. I'd hate for her to be sixteen, and still having to sit in the booster seat in Mama's car. :)

4'9" Geez I didn't get that tall until I WAS 16. That's B/S I never even wore a seatbelt, and my folks took us all over the nation. We used to lay in the rearview mirror, or sit in the backwards seat of the stationwagon, or just let the seats down and lay on pallets. That was before society started living our lives for us.

Richard God's Fiery Falcon

You have neglected to tell the state you are in. My suggestion is that you simple call the local police department and ask them, Each state has their own rules and regulations under their Department of Motor Vehicles . In CA. we are under the Department of Motor Vehicles that may have different laws than say your state.
DFF

Enter Your Message or Comment

User Name:
User Email:
Post a comment: