Having children is an exciting time for growing families. But, because children grow quickly, it can be difficult to keep up with their safety needs. One thing that parents should regularly check on is whether their child is in the correct car seat. The basic information below should help you keep your children safe while you are behind the wheel.
Nevada Car Seat Law
Whether or not Nevada law requires that your child be restrained in a car seat depends on their weight and age. State law mandates that if your child is under 6 years of age and weighs 60 pounds or less, they must be in an appropriate child safety seat. Under Nevada Revised Statute 484B.157 the child restraint system must be:
- Approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in accordance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) law;
- Appropriate for the weight and size of the particular child;
- Installed and attached safely in a car according to the manufacturer’s instructions or in a manner approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Determining the Correct Car Seat
As your child grows, the appropriate car seat for their safety needs will also change. There are several questions you can ask to determine if your child is in the right car seat. Remember, your child’s safety and livelihood are at risk, and it is critical that you select the correct child restraint system.
- Does the Car Seat Fit Your Child? Make sure that the car seat fits the current size and age of your child. There are several different kinds of car seats that are designed for specific sizes and ages of children. Generally, the types include rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seats. Always refer to the specific car seat manufacturer’s directions for weight and height limits.
- Does the Car Seat Fit the Vehicle? The car seat should not only fit your child’s needs but also fit your vehicle. If you have more than one car, make sure the seat can be properly installed in all vehicles.
- Did you Install the Car Seat Correctly? Make sure that the car seat is installed correctly in all vehicles and used each time correctly. The seat should be installed at the proper angle and secured tightly. If you are unsure, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) detailed installation guide and videos or get the seat inspected by a professional.
- How to Replace Your Car Seat? If you think you and your kiddo are due for a new car seat, you may be wondering where to get one. The NHTSA has a car seat finder to make your selection easier by providing recommendations when you simply input your child’s date of birth, weight, and height.
Experienced Nevada Personal Injury Attorneys
Hopefully, the information provided will help you keep your children safe when you are traveling by vehicle in Nevada. If you or someone you care about is involved in a Las Vegas car accident, speak with the experienced personal injury attorneys at H&P Law. Our lawyers will work hard to protect your rights under the law.
