Some kids in Quebec will no longer be needing a booster seat
Posted Apr 17, 2019 08:39:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Children younger than nine will be allowed to ride in a vehicle without a booster seat, in Quebec, as long as they're taller than 4' 9″ when standing.
The new rule comes into effect, Thursday, April 18.
Previously, children had to be taller than 2' 0″, when seated, to not need a booster seat.
The new rule, if not followed, could result in a fine of $80 to $100 along with three demerit points.
The height difference measure will ensure children's safety in case of a serious collision, explained Mario Vaillancourt, Spokesperson for the Quebec's automobile insurance board.
“The seat belt must cross in the middle of the shoulder or the collar bone and on their hip, because those bones are more likely to absorbed the shock in a accident,” he said.
Vaillancourt added, in many cases parents remove their children from a booster seat too early.
“There is a 45 per cent increase in risk if the child is not in the booster and is placed on the car seat without,” said Vaillancourt.
It's recommended parents make sure their child seats meets regulations and are properly installed in the back seat of their vehicle.
