Michigan’s New Child Safety Seat Laws Take Effect Today

What You Need to Know About New Car Seat Laws in Michigan

At Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys, we see the devastating impact of car accidents every day. When children are involved, the consequences can be especially heartbreaking. As personal injury attorneys, we fight for victims and their families, but we also believe in advocating for preventative measures that keep our communities safe. That’s why we want to highlight Michigan’s new child passenger safety laws, which take effect today, April 2, 2025. These updated regulations are designed to better protect young passengers and align with modern safety recommendations. According to the Michigan State Police, car accidents remain the leading cause of death for young children.

Michigan’s Updated Child Passenger Safety Laws

Effective immediately, the following child safety seat and seat belt regulations are in place:

1. Rear-Facing Car Seats: Children must remain in a rear-facing car seat until they reach 2-years-old or exceed the manufacturer’s height or weight limits. Previously, the requirement was only until the age of one.
2. Forward-Facing Car Seats: Once a child outgrows their rear-facing seat, they must use a forward-facing car seat with an internal harness until at least age 5, up from the previous requirement of age 4.
3. Booster Seats: Children under 8 years old or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches must use a booster seat to ensure proper seat belt fit.
4. Seating Position: Children under 13 years old are now required to sit in the back seat of the vehicle for added protection.
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violating these laws can result in a fine of approximately $65, including civil penalties and court costs.

Proper Child Car Seat Use Saves Lives

Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of injury and death for children. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Properly used child restraints reduce infant fatalities by 71% in a crash.
• For children ages 1 to 4, the risk of fatal injury is reduced by 54% in passenger cars.

These numbers highlight the importance of proper car seat use. Adhering to these new laws isn’t just about avoiding a ticket—it’s about saving lives.

Keeping Your Children Safe While in the Car

To ensure compliance and maximize safety:

• Use the Right Car Seat: Make sure your child’s car seat is appropriate for their age, weight, and height.
• Check Installation: Have your car seat inspected by a certified technician—many local organizations offer free checks.
• Stay Informed: Safety recommendations evolve, so regularly review both Michigan laws and best practices for child passenger safety.

Advocacy and Accountability

At Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys, we are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and supporting families affected by Michigan car accidents. We also believe in raising awareness about laws that prevent injuries before they happen. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, we are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for justice. For a free consultation call: 248-531-8665.

For more details on Michigan’s updated child safety seat laws, you can review Michigan Compiled Laws Section 257.710d.

Let’s work together to keep our children safe on Michigan’s roads.

Resources:

Michigan State Police: Updated Child Passengar Safety Laws

NHTSA.Gov – Car Seats and Booster Seats: Finding and Installing Car Seats

National Safety Council: Child Restraints