Updates to Michigan’s Child Passenger Safety Laws:

Vehicle crashes are the #1 cause of death for young children. But you can reduce your child’s risk of death in a crash by 50% just by making sure they’re properly restrained in the appropriate car seat, booster seat, or seat belt for their age and size.

According to updated laws that take effect April 2, 2025, children must be secured in a car seat that is appropriate for their weight and height as indicated by the car seat’s manufacturer. These updates state:

• Infant to two years: A child must be in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer or the child is 2 years old.
• Two to five years: The child can then move into a forward-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer or the child is 5 years old.
• Five to eight years: The child can then move to a belt-positioning booster seat using a lap and shoulder belt until they are 4’ 9” or 8 years old.
• All children under thirteen years: Children under the age of 13 must ride in the rear seat of a vehicle if the vehicle has one available.

The OHSP created a flyer that outlines the updates to Michigan’s Child Passenger Safety Laws. Traffic safety partners can order printed copies of this flyer at no cost by emailing TrafficSafety@michigan.gov or writing-in the item on the Traffic Safety Materials Catalog Order Form.

Michigan's Child Passenger Safety Laws also require:

• Children younger than age 4 to ride in a car seat in the rear seat (if the vehicle has a rear seat). If all available rear seats are occupied by children under 4, then a child under 4 may ride in a car seat in the front seat. A child in a rear-facing car seat may only ride in the front seat if the airbag is turned off.

• Children must be properly buckled in a car seat or booster seat until they are 8 years old or 4-feet-9-inches tall. Children must ride in a seat until they reach the age requirement or the height requirement, whichever comes first.

Recommendations:

• It is recommended that children 8 and older be placed in an age- and weight-appropriate child safety seat if the vehicle’s seat belt does not fit properly. All children ages 12 and under ride in a rear seat.
• Drivers, front-seat passengers regardless of age, and all passengers ages 8 through 15 are required to wear properly adjusted seat belts.

How to Choose the Right Car Seat:

• Using a car seat or booster seat that's right for your child’s age and size can help prevent injuries and fatalities caused by car crashes. Find important tips to help you choose the right seat and keep your child safe in the car at any age.

Heatstroke Prevention:

It is important to protect your kids and other loved ones from extreme heat.  It is never safe to leave a child unattended in a vehicle. Always remember to Look Before You Lock!