Vehicle crashes are the #1 cause of death for young children. But you can reduce your child's risk of death in a crash by 50% just by making sure they're properly restrained in the appropriate car seat, booster seat, or seat belt for their age and size. According to updated laws that take effect April 2, 2025, children must be secured in a car seat that is appropriate for their weight and height as indicated by the car seat’s manufacturer.
These updates state:
- Infant to two years: A child must be in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer or the child is 2 years old.
- Two to five years: The child can then move into a forward-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer or the child is 5 years old.
- Five to eight years: The child can then move to a belt-positioning booster seat using a lap and shoulder belt until they are 4’ 9” or 8 years old.
- All children under thirteen years: Children under the age of 13 must ride in the rear seat of a vehicle if the vehicle has one available.
The OHSP created a flyer that outlines the updates to Michigan’s Child Passenger Safety Laws.
Contact Your Local Health Department, dial extension 305, to have your car seat professionally checked by a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST).
Working with a Child Passenger Safety Technician will be a one-on-one learning experience. When you leave, you should be confident that your child’s seat is installed correctly and feel comfortable reinstalling it on your own.
This one-on-one education typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on your car seat and vehicle. The technician will take all the time you need until you feel comfortable that your car seat is used and installed correctly.
Helpful videos:
Child Passenger Safety- Harness Fit
Child Passenger Safety- 5 Step Test
Child Passenger Safety- Common Mistakes
Child Passenger Safety-Booster Seats
