Common Misuse with Booster Seats

child in booster seat

Are you using your child’s safety seat correctly? According to the National Digital Car Seat Check Form (NDCF) database, 22.9% of children transitioned to a booster seat too soon in 2024. If your child is ready for a booster seat, we are sharing common errors with booster seats, and how to avoid them.

3 common misuses

Misuse #1

The seat belt fit is incorrect.

Misuse #2

The seat belt routing is incorrect.

Misuse #3

The seat belt is too loose.

2 solutions

Recommendation

  • Confirm that your child is ready to transition from a rear-facing car seat or forward-facing car seat to a booster seat. It's recommended that children stay in a such a seat until they outgrow the height or weight limit.
  • Review the booster seat manufacturers’ instructions for guidance  on seat belt routing, fit, and tightness.
  • Learn from the National Child Passenger Safety Board on seat belt routing, fit, and tightness. Watch now.

Common Misuses with Other Child Safety Seats

child in rear facing seat

65.5% of rear-facing car seats were improperly used in 2024.

forward facing car seat

80.8% of forward-facing car seats were not used correctly in 2024.

teen using seat belt

89.3% of children transitioned to a seat belt too soon in 2024.