Here's some information that all families should have. All children must be transported as safely as possible. Federal law mandates that all children under 5 years and 40 pounds need to be transported in car seats. 7 and 60 pounds use some sort of harness or booster seat. Research shows that traditional car seat belts do not function optimally on children under age 9 and 80 pounds.
Laws regarding children and car seats are much stricter in Europe.
If you factor in compromised head and trunk control, we all know we should be more vigilant about ensuring children with special needs are transported properly. However, because of certain conditions and health problems, not all children can ride in many of the car seats commonly found in stores. Children with breathing problems, casts, or who have a poor ability to hold their heads up, for example, may need to use special car seats. There are a few on the market, but not every model is for every child. Check the label on the seat and make sure it states that the seat meets or exceeds federal safety standards.