Keeping kids safe in cars is incredibly important, and that’s why Utah has specific laws about car seats. These laws are designed to protect children while they’re riding in vehicles.
Here’s a quick overview of Utah law on car seats, which outlines the requirements for car seats based on your child’s age and height.
Child restraint requirements in Utah
Utah law requires that children age 7 or younger and shorter than 57 inches tall must be properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat. This means that both age and height are considered.
For example, if your child is 8 years old but shorter than 57 inches, or if they’re 7 years old but taller than 57 inches, the requirements change. (See below.)
Acceptable car seats include infant car seats, convertible car seats, and booster seats. Be sure to follow the car seat manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that you’ve installed the seat correctly.
Seat belt laws for older kids
Once children turn 8 years old or reach 57 inches in height, Utah law says they can use regular seat belts instead of car seats or booster seats.
Utah’s seat belt law applies to everyone in the car, no matter where they’re sitting. Whether you’re in the front or the back, you have to buckle up.
Summary
Under current Utah law, you could receive a ticket and a fine of up to $45.00 for a first-time violation of the child passenger safety law or the seatbelt law.
Child passenger safety is an evolving field, and the laws may change in the future, so it’s worth checking back for updates. No matter what, the safety of children in vehicles should always be a top priority.