If you're a parent or guardian living in Wisconsin, you may have heard about the new booster seat law that was recently passed. As of January 1st, 2023, all children under the age of 8 must be securely fastened in a booster seat when traveling in a motor vehicle. This law is aimed at protecting young children and ensuring their safety while on the road. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the details of the new law and what it means for parents and guardians in Wisconsin.
Why The New Law Was Passed
The new booster seat law was passed in an effort to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities caused by car accidents. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of death and injury for children under the age of 8. In fact, between 2017 and 2021, there were over 1,000 car accidents involving children under the age of 8 in Wisconsin alone. Many of these accidents could have been prevented if the children involved had been properly secured in a booster seat.
The new law requires that children under the age of 8 be securely fastened in a booster seat while traveling in a motor vehicle. This includes children who are riding in the front seat, as well as those who are riding in the back seat. The law also requires that the booster seat be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and that it be properly secured to the vehicle's seat.
How The New Law Will Be Enforced
The new booster seat law will be enforced by law enforcement officers across the state of Wisconsin. If a child under the age of 8 is found to be traveling in a motor vehicle without a booster seat, the driver of the vehicle can be issued a citation and fined up to $75. Additionally, if a child is injured in a car accident and was not properly secured in a booster seat, the driver of the vehicle can be held liable for any damages resulting from the accident.
It's important to note that the new law is not intended to punish parents or guardians who may be unaware of the requirements. Rather, it's aimed at educating the public about the importance of proper child safety restraints and reducing the number of accidents and injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents.
Choosing The Right Booster Seat
When it comes to choosing the right booster seat for your child, there are a few important factors to consider. First and foremost, make sure that the booster seat is appropriate for your child's age, weight, and height. The booster seat should also be installed properly and securely in your vehicle, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
There are two types of booster seats available: high-back booster seats and backless booster seats. High-back booster seats are recommended for younger children who still need support for their head and neck. Backless booster seats are recommended for older children who are tall enough to sit comfortably without additional support. Both types of booster seats are effective at protecting children in the event of a car accident, as long as they are used properly.
Conclusion
The new booster seat law in Wisconsin is an important step towards protecting young children and reducing the number of injuries and fatalities caused by car accidents. By properly securing children in booster seats, parents and guardians can help ensure their safety while on the road. Remember to choose the right booster seat for your child's age, weight, and height, and to install it properly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Together, we can work towards creating a safer driving environment for everyone.
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