Nova Scotia law requires that children traveling in vehicles are safely secured in a booster seat or car seat that is built for their age group and size. Here are some of the standard car seat laws in Nova Scotia.
Rear-Facing Car Seat
Newly born children should be secured in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least one year of age and approximately 22 pounds. It is recommended that they stay rear-facing until they reach two years of age.
Forward-Facing Car Seat
Children must be at least one year old and 22 pounds before it is safe for them to be placed in a forward-facing car seat. Children should remain in a forward-facing car seat until they are at least 40 pounds.
Booster Seat
Children must be at least 40 pounds before they can upgrade to a booster seat. Children should continue to use a booster seat until they are either 4 feet and 9 inches tall or they are 9 years old.
Upgrading to a seat belt after the booster seat stage
In accordance with the law, children are allowed to use a seat belt once they are either 9 years old or approximately 4 feet and 9 inches in height.
It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers under the age of 16 are securely buckled in with their seat belt, car seat or booster seat.
When purchasing a car seat or booster seat, make sure it has passed all the safety measures. Do not buy a car seat or booster seat second hand. If you have been in a car accident, and you have a car seat or booster seat in your vehicle, you must purchase a new one due to safety reasons. Insurance will cover this cost. Our team at Wagners can walk you through free of charge, how to get insurance to cover the cost of a new car seat if you have been in an accident with a car seat in the vehicle.
Please keep yourself and your loved ones safe by adhering to seat belt and car seat laws. If you have questions about being in a car accident or have been in another type of vehicle collision, our team at Wagners is always ready to provide advice.