What type of restraint system is required for any child under 1 year of age?

The requirement for a child under 1 year of age to be secured in an approved rear-facing child restraint system is based on safety guidelines established to protect infants in the event of a crash. Rear-facing car seats are designed to support the head, neck, and spine of a young child, offering better protection during collisions, especially since children at that age have limited muscle control and their bodies are still developing.

This type of restraint helps to distribute the forces of a crash across the entire back of the seat, minimizing the risk of serious injuries that could occur with other forms of restraints when an accident happens. Booster seats and convertible car seats can provide great protection as well, but for infants under 1 year old, the recommendation is specifically for them to remain in an approved rear-facing position because it is the most effective way to ensure their safety. Regular seat belts are not suitable for children of such a young age due to their size and the development of their skeletal structure.