The manufacturer’s instructions that come with thebooster seat, state the weight and height limitations forthat booster. Use a booster seat with a lap-shoulderbelt until the child passes the below fit test:• Sit all the way back on the seat. Do the knees bendat the seat edge? If yes, continue. If no, return tothe booster seat.• Buckle the lap-shoulder belt. Does the shoulder beltrest on the shoulder? If yes, continue. If no, thenreturn to the booster seat.• Does the lap belt fit low and snug on the hips,touching the thighs? If yes, continue. If no, return tothe booster seat.• Can proper safety belt fit be maintained for thelength of the trip? If yes, continue. If no, returnto the booster seat.Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts?A: An older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt andget the additional restraint a shoulder belt canprovide. The shoulder belt should not cross the faceor neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below thehips, just touching the top of the thighs. This appliesbelt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.It should never be worn over the abdomen, whichcould cause severe or even fatal internal injuries ina crash.According to accident statistics, children and infants aresafer when properly restrained in rear seating positionsthan in the front seating positions.1-24
