Child Safety Law/Info

Wisconsin's Safety Belt and Child Passenger Safety Laws

State Statute # 347.48 (4): This child passenger law (0 to 8 years) authorizes primary enforcement (no other violation need exist)

No one may transport a child under the age of four that is not properly restrained in a child safety seat, nor under the age of eight that is not in a car seat or safety belt.

No child under the age of 16 may be transported in the cargo area of a vehicle or the back of a pickup truck that is not equipped with safety belts or a child car seat.

State Statute # 347.48 (2m): 8-16 years is a secondary law (another violation must be used to stop vehicle) Driver is responsible and receives the citation for each violation. Age 16 or older is also a secondary law and each violator receives a citation issued to them.

State Statute # 346.922(1): No child under the age of 16 years may ride in the open cargo area of a truck. Driver is responsible and receives the citations.

Proper child safety seat use Buckle Everyone. It is recommended all children 12 and under ride in the back seat.
	Infants	Toddlers/Preschool	Young Children
Weight:	Birth to at least 1 year and 20-22 lbs.	Over 20 lbs. to about 40 lbs. and over 1 year	Over 40 lbs. up to about 80 lbs. or more
Type of seat:	Infant only or rear-facing convertible	Convertible/Forward-facing	Belt-positioning booster seat
Seat position:	Rear-facing only	Forward-facing	Forward-facing
Always make sure:	Children to at least one year and at least 20 lbs. in rear-facing seats in back seat Harness straps at or below shoulder level	Harness straps should be at or above shoulders Most seats require top slot for forward-facing	Belt-positioning booster seats must be used with both lap and shoulder belt
Warning:	Do not place infants in the front seat of cars with air bags	All children age 12 and under ride in the back seat	Make sure the lap belt fits low and tight to avoid abdominal injuries

Chart is courtesy of NHTSA.

For Even More Information Visit These Sites

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

State of Wisconsin Department of Transportation Child Safety Information

The above information concerns the Child Passenger Law in Wisconsin. Many questions are asked to the Sheriff's Department each day concerning such issues as what is a proper and safe child safety seat and when is a booster seat safe. Green County has three deputies who have completed training and carry the title of Child Safety Seat Technicians. This training is extensive and they are recognized as experts in child safety seats.

You can also receive information on how to have a one on one appointment with a Child Safety Seat Technician who can demonstration the proper and safe way to protect that precious cargo; your child. Email the Department for further information or to make an appointment. grso@greensheriff.com.

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