babble put out a great post with an amazing graphic about the new Car Seat Law that comes into effect in 2014 in the United States.
The new law states that the maximum weight of the LATCH anchors in a vehicle is 65lbs. This means:
If the weight of your child combined with the weight of the car seat is over 65lbs, you have to install the car seat with the seat belt.
What does this mean for Canadians??
Nothing. Our laws are not changing.
From Transport Canada’s website:
Important: If your child weighs over 18 kg (40 lbs), please ask your vehicle manufacturer if your vehicle can support a heavier child with the UAS and tether, or the seat belt and tether.”
Vehicle Manufacturers
To find the customer service number of your vehicle’s manufacture, please read your owners manual.
Will the Canadian car seat laws change?
Maybe. Transport Canada has made this statement about the NHTSA Final Rule.
When should you stop using UAS?
Car seat technicians will teach you to stop using UAS at a child’s weight of 40 pounds without taking into consideration the weight of the car seat. Until the federal government makes official changes to the Regulations, we have to follow the instructions from the car seat manufacturer and the vehicle manufacturer. If neither of them specifically state a combined weight, then it would be wise to stick to the 40 pound limit for UAS.
Questions?
I know there will be a lot of questions, please comment below, and I’ll be happy to answer them!!
