Yes, You Should Use Car Seats in Texas—It’s the Law

Look, I get it. Car seats can be just one annoying step when trying to go anywhere. They can be confusing, pricey, and if your kid is just as comfortable without them, then what's the problem with ignoring them?

Well, in Texas, there are multiple reasons why car seats should be used. Not to mention that it's the law in some cases.

Car Seat Safety in Texas

In 2024, Texas saw a tragic increase in children under the age of eight dying in car accidents due to improper buckling.

TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams voiced his disgust with these numbers:

These tragedies are preventable. Every parent and caregiver must make a nonnegotiable habit to properly secure their child in a car seat or booster — every ride, every time. Children's lives depend on it.

From 2023 to 2024, unrestrained children eight years and younger who died in car crashes grew from 30% to 40%. On top of this, it's reported that 46% of all car seats are improperly installed.

Texas Car Seat Laws

Texas law requires car seats for all children under eight years old or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches tall. Fines resulting from improper buckling for children can reach up to $250 per instance.

What Can Parents Do?

The Texas Department of Transportation invites all parents to have their car seat safety checked for free by visiting SaveMeWithASeat.org and finding the nearest TxDOT office.

This campaign will also be making stops throughout September across various Texas cities to provide interactive and educational experiences for all ages. You can visit the TxDOT page to see if they'll be anywhere near you!