* Children under the age of 1 must ride in a rear-facing car seat. This is the safest position for infants and toddlers, as it helps to protect their head and neck in the event of a crash.
* Children between the ages of 1 and 5 must ride in a child safety seat with a harness. The harness should be snug, but not too tight.
* Children between the ages of 6 and 8 must ride in a booster seat. A booster seat helps to raise your child up so that the seat belt fits snugly across their hips and chest.
* Once your child is 8 years old and 57 inches tall, they may ride in a seat belt without a booster seat. However, it is still recommended that children use a booster seat until they are 13 years old.
In addition to these general rules, there are also specific requirements for infants and toddlers.
* Infants must be placed in a car seat that is specifically designed for infants. This type of car seat has a soft, padded headrest and a five-point harness.
* Toddlers must ride in a toddler seat. A toddler seat is a forward-facing car seat with a harness.
It is important to note that Massachusetts child seat laws do not apply to children who are riding in a taxi, limousine, or bus. However, it is still recommended that children use a car seat or booster seat in these vehicles, as they are the safest way to travel.
For more information on Massachusetts child seat laws, please visit the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety website.
