WA State Car Seat Laws Changing January 1, 2020

Published on December 31, 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington State Car Seat Laws Changing January 1, 2020

LYNNWOOD, WA (December 31, 2019) - The Lynnwood Police Department would like to remind community members that Washington State car seat laws will be changing effective January 1, 2020. The Child Restraint Laws help to ensure that you are using the correct seat for your child's age and size. Keeping your child in a proper seat helps to greatly reduce the chances of death or serious injury in a crash. 

The revised car seat law will require the following:

• Children up to age 2 must be properly secured in a rear-facing car seat.
• Children ages 2-4 must be properly secured in a car seat with a harness (rear or forward facing).
• Children 4 and older and less than 4' 9" tall must be secured in a booster seat with seat belt (or continue in harness seat).
• Children over height 4' 9" must be secured by a properly fitted seat belt (typically starting at 8-12 years old).
• Children up to age 13 must ride in the back seat when practical to do so.
• Child restraint system must comply with U.S. DOT standards and be used according to vehicle and child restraint manufacturer.

For more information visit www.wacarseats.com.

Did you know that the Lynnwood Police Department offers free car seat installations and checks every Wednesday? 

Our Volunteer Technicians are nationally certified to help parents and caregivers learn how to safely install child seats in their own vehicles. Appointments are required and generally last 30-60 minutes, since parent education and involvement is a primary goal.

For more information or to schedule an appointment call 425-670-5710.

Contact:

Lisa Wellington, Crime Prevention Specialist
lwellington@LynnwoodWa.Gov

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