Car Seat Laws in Arizona

In 2018, 3,134 children under the age of 14 were seriously injured in a car accident, with 32 of those injuries resulting in death. In fact, car crashes are the number one cause of death for children ages 1 to 12 in the U.S. But while these statistics are devastating, there are a number of measures that we can take to protect our kids. One of the simplest ways to do so is to use car seats properly.

The state of Arizona requires that all children who are younger than 8 years old and under 4’9” are properly secured in a child safety seat. These seats include:

• Infant seats
• Convertible seats
• Forward-facing seats
• Federally approved safety seats

It is critical to follow the guidelines for height and weight to ensure that your child is using the proper seat for their size. Arizona state law mandates:

• All kids ages 8 and younger must be in a child safety seat appropriate for his or her size
• Children under the age of 13 should always ride in the backseat
• All children ages 8 to 16 years old who are not in a car seat should be using a seatbelt

Infants/Babies (0-12 months)

Infant seats, which are designed to fit newborns up to 30 pounds or more, are rear-facing. When they outgrow the infant carrier they can use a convertible seat. However, they should remain rear-facing until they are at least two years old and have hit the maximum height and weight limits for their specific seat.

Toddlers/Preschoolers (1-4)

Convertible car seats can be rear-facing before becoming forward-facing for older toddlers generally 22 to 65 pounds. Safety experts encourage parents to use a seat that has a five-point harness. High-backed booster seats are for older children. Some seats are capable of handling children who weigh up to 100 pounds. Always check the manual that comes with the seat. As a general rule of thumb, children should be at least five to six years old before they move to a booster seat.

Older Kids (5-13)

Kids don’t usually get to go without a safety seat of any kind until they are about 8-12 years old, and at least 4’9” and 80 pounds.

How Do I Know if My Child Can Ride without a Booster Seat?

1. When your child sits with his or her back against the seat, his or her legs should bend over the edge of the seat
2. When the seat belt is buckled, the lap belt should stay lower on the hips
3. The shoulder belt should rest on the collarbone and shoulder
4. The shoulder belt should not go under your child’s arms or behind his or her back
5. Your child should be able to hold this position

Those who violate Arizona car seat regulations can be fined up to $176.

If you are concerned that your seat may not be installed properly, there are a number of car seat inspection stations that you can visit. Don’t take any chances – it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Auto accidents can result in a number of damages that can impact your life and the lives of your children. You should not have to deal with the physical, emotional, and financial burden alone. If you, your child, or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another party, a qualified Arizona Car Accident Attorney can help. At Zanes Law, we will fight for the compensation you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, call us at 833-214-0917.

Zanes Law – We handle your claim from A to Z.

Doug Zanes: Founding Attorney Raised in Douglas, Arizona, and went to college at Arizona State University and graduated from law school at St. Mary’s University School of Law in Texas. Doug began practicing law in Phoenix Arizona in 1997.