- Delaware requires all passengers to wear seat belts.seat belt receptacle image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates seat belts and other restraints have saved the lives of over 8,000 children since 1974. Delaware's seat belt laws apply to all drivers and passengers, but there are additional laws in place for children. Residents aware of Delaware's child seat belt laws can take the necessary steps to protect any young passengers. - Delaware requires all children to wear seatbelts, regardless of age and position in the car. Delaware also requires children under 12 years of age to sit in the back seat of any car that is equipped with airbags in the front passenger side of the vehicle.
- Delaware has additional restrictions in place for younger and smaller children. Children must sit in the back seat in rear-facing infant seats until they are at least one year of age and weigh at least 20 pounds. Children must continue to ride in federally approved car seats or boosters until they reach eight years of age or 65 pounds.
- Delaware considers violating its child seat belt laws to be a primary offense. This means officers may pull over a vehicle any time they believe a child is not wearing a seat belt. The fine for violating any Delaware child seat belt law is $40. This includes a $25 fine and $15 for court costs. The fine increases by $20 for each additional offense.
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