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Car seat laws differ slightly in the 50 states, however following are some general laws about car seats. These are regulations set for the safest care of passengers in cases of accidents. For under 1 yr of age and under 20 lbs, the child should be in a car seat facing the rear. A baby mirror can be placed in front of the baby on the seat back so that the driver can view the baby. If expecting a newborn, please purchase a car seat and become familiar with it because the hospital will not allow the baby to leave unless it is fitted properly in the car seat and the car seat snaps into place in a properly adjusted car seat holder. Be able to place two fingers between the straps and the baby's chest to assure a comfortable and safe fit and be sure that the straps are not pressed against the baby's neck or face so it can breathe properly. If the baby is of low birth weight, they might require the use of a car bed support or infant only car seat until they are able to sit in a child car seat.

For children between 1-4 years of age and 20-40 lbs, the car seat can face forward. When the ears line with the back of the seat, the child can sit in a booster seat, they must be 40-60 lbs and at least 4 years old. When the child is 80 lbs and able to sit straight in the car with both feet touching the floor and the seat belt at proper alignment so that it doesn't press against the throat, the child can be without a booster seat. Do not allow children to sit in the front seat due to airbags.

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