How do I follow Nebraska’s Child Restraints laws?

How do I follow Nebraska’s Child Restraints laws?

The best resource for information on child restraint laws can be found here, via the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

  • All children up to age eight must ride correctly secured in a federally-approved child safety seat.
  • Children ride rear-facing until up to age two or until they reach the upper weight or height limit allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer.
  • Children under age eight must ride in the back seat, as long as there is a back seat equipped with a seatbelt and is not already occupied by other children under eight years of age.
  • Children ages eight to eighteen must ride secured in a safety belt or child safety seat (booster seat).
  • Childcare providers must transport all children securely in an appropriate federally-approved child safety seat or safety belt.
  • Children up to age eighteen are prohibited from riding in cargo areas.
  • Violation carries a $25 fine plus court costs and 1 point is assessed against the operator’s driving record.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SAFE TRANSPORTATION OF CHILDREN:

  • Read and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for your child safety seat and the vehicle owner's manual.
  • No more than one finger's width of slack between the child's collar bone & the harness strap.
  • The harness retainer clip should be at arm pit level.
  • The safety seat should be installed tight. No more than one inch of movement side to side or front to back, AT THE BELT PATH.
  • Children should ride in a rear facing safety seat until they are at least two years of age or until they reach the upper weight or height limit allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer.
  • NEVER place a rear-facing child safety seat the front seat of a vehicle equipped with an air bag.
  • If a forward facing child MUST be placed in a seating position with an air bag, move the seat as far back as possible, out of the bags path.
  • Older children, generally ages 4-8 and 40 -80 pounds should ride in a booster seat. Be certain they have upper body protection and head support. Some vehicles have no shoulder belts or head restraints in the back seats.

All children 12 and under should ride in the back seat; the safest place. Proper installation is important for your child's safety.Check our web site for the next Child Safety Seat check up near you or contact a Nationally Certified Technician for assistance.