Seat Belt and Child Restraint Violations

Every state has a law requiring the use of safety belts by adult drivers and passengers in motor vehicles. The exception is New Hampshire, whose rule applies only to passengers under 18.

About half of states allow a law enforcement officer to make a traffic stop based solely on a seat belt violation (meaning that enforcement of seat belt laws is "primary" in those states). The remaining states require a law enforcement officer to make a traffic stop for a different reason, such as speeding or a mechanical violation before police can enforce the seat belt law (meaning that enforcement can only be "secondary" in those states).

Child Restraint Violations

Each state also has traffic laws requiring child safety seats for passengers under a certain age or body weight (usually regardless of whether the child is in a front or rear seat). Also, some states prohibit children below a set weight/age from riding in child safety seats in the front seats of vehicles equipped with passenger-side airbags. Young children who exceed the age or body weight limit for a child safety seat can typically use a standard safety belt for restraint.

Buckling Up for Safety: Tips for All Ages

The easiest way to protect yourself and your family in a vehicle collision is to buckle up. But, infants, children of different ages, and adults should follow different safety recommendations for restraints and safety belts.

Here are some child restraint safety tips for babies, children, and teens:

• Infants are safest in rear-facing car seats until a minimum of age 1 and at least 20 pounds.
• Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully while installing a new booster seat, car seat, or child restraint.
• Children under 13 years of age are safest in the back seat.
• Ensure children and teens do not tuck the shoulder belt under their arms or behind their backs.
• Double-check all seating positions before you start your trip, ensuring no children or teens share seat belts.

Adult seat belts are your best defense against serious car crash injuries. Being ejected from a vehicle during a collision often results in death.

• The lap belt and shoulder belt should lay across your pelvis and ribs, and the shoulder belt should be on the center of your chest and under your neck.
• Seat belt adjusters may be available for your vehicle if the existing safety belts do not provide a comfortable and secure fit.
• If you are pregnant, do not place the lap belt on your stomach. Instead, position it across your hips and pelvis.

Seat Belt and Child Restraint State Laws

Below, you will find each state listed with links to relevant seat belt and child restraint laws. Learn about traffic violations, tickets, and fines at FindLaw's Traffic Ticket FAQs section.

Next Steps: Hire a Local Traffic Ticket Lawyer

If the police have issued you a safety belt or child safety restraint violation, you may be able to contest the ticket. Speak with an experienced traffic ticket attorney today to help prevent your seat belt ticket from affecting your driving record.