Car seat checks

Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death and injuries for children.

Education and proper use of car seats, booster seats, seat belts and vehicle safety systems helps save lives and can prevent injuries and deaths.  When used correctly, the risk of hospitalization, injury and death for children is greatly reduced.

Illinois Child Passenger Protection Act

Children under the age of 8 must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system.  Height and weight limits are determined by the car seat/booster seat manufacturer.  An appropriate system:

• Fits the child
• Fits the vehicle
• Is used according to the car seat manufacturer's guidelines

Requirements

• Children under the age of 2 must ride rear-facing
• Car seat must be provided by parent or legal guardian
• Every person transporting a child under 8 is responsible for properly securing the child

Exemptions

• Child weighing more than 40 pounds
• Child taller than 40 inches
• Child transported in vehicle weighing more than 9000 pounds

Penalties

• $75 fine for first violation
• $200 fine for second violation