When your child reaches 4 feet 9 inches and between 80 to 100 pounds, use the Safety Belt Fit Test to determine if the child is big enough to use the adult seat belt without a booster. Use the Safety Belt Fit Test on every child under 13.
- Texas law requires booster seats for children who have outgrown car seats but are under 8 years old, unless they have reached 4'9" in height.
- Children need to be restrained in booster seats until they are big enough to fit properly in an adult seat belt.
- Most 40 –pound children are not big enough to fit into seat belts.
- Booster seats are not installed the same way car seats are. Booster seats sit on the vehicle seat and are used to properly position the adult seat belt for a child
- A booster seat uses no harness. It uses the vehicle's lap AND shoulder belts only. Be sure the seat belt is properly buckled.
- Never place the shoulder belt under the child's arm or behind the child's back.
- Tell all drivers who transport your child that booster seat use is a must when your child is in their vehicle.
- Be sure all occupants wear safety belts correctly every time. Children learn from adult role models.
- Use the Safety Belt Fit Test to determine if the child is big enough to use the adult seat belt without a booster.
- Use the Safety Belt Fit Test on every child under 13.
