Massachusetts
Children Passenger Safety Law
Off. Rhett Bannish
Off. Michael taggart
Southwick Police Department
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Massachusetts Children Passenger Safety Law
Off. Rhett Bannish Off. Michael taggart
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Massachusetts law requires all children to ride in a safety seat until they are at least five years old AND they weigh over 40 pounds.
Children who weigh over 40 pounds but are under five, must ride in booster seats. For children five years of age or older AND weighing 40 pounds to 60 pounds, a booster seat is recommended.
Children five years of age or older AND weigh over 60 pounds must where a safety belt that is properly adjusted. Choosing a safety seat depends on the child's weight, not age. The driver of the vehicle will be fined $25.00 for each unrestrained child.
Massachusetts law requires all occupants to be properly restrained when riding in a private passenger vehicle, including vans and trucks.
Safety belts reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a car crash by 75%. Safety belts prevent the head from making contact with the steering wheel, windshield and dashboard and, prevent occupants from being ejected from the vehicle.
Air bags save lives, however, special precautions must be taken when driving with children. Children under twelve should be in the back seat away from the air bag.
Remember, Air bags are supplemental devices. Safety belts must be used on every ride for maximum protection. NEVER place a rear facing child seat in a front passenger seat with an air bag.
For more information and installations, please contact Off. Rhett Bannish 4 p.m. to 12 midnight shift or Off. Michael Taggart 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. shift, at the Southwick Police Department,(413) 569-5348.
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