All states require car seats for the smallest children, usually up to 4 years old, but federal data shows that less than 10 percent of children between 4 and 8 use booster seats. But when children get older, past 20 pounds, parents are taking more risks with them. We need to close the gaps in laws and the gaps in parents' understanding. Booster seats can vary in appearance, but usually look like the seats children use to reach the table at a restaurant. They elevate the child so the seat belt fits properly across the shoulder and lap.
Size is more important than age in determining how long to use a booster seat.
The federal government recommends that children from 40 to 80 pounds and less than 4 feet 9 inches tall should always use them. No one is sure how many deaths and injuries could be prevented if booster seats were used more. About 500 children between 4 and 8 die each year in car accidents, making it their leading cause of death. Doctors at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have been collecting data on child crash injuries since 1998 and found that children who wear booster seats are at least half as likely to be injured. Automakers are working to increase awareness of booster seats and other aspects of child safety in vehicles.