Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children age 1 to 13. Most of these deaths could be prevented with proper use of child safety seats. According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, three out of four child safety seats are used incorrectly.
Families with limited income or whose children participate in a Medical Assistance program may be eligible for a free car seat and education. Learn more by calling 507-934-8262.
Minnesota law
- Requires that children under age 8 must ride in a federally approved car seat or booster seat, unless the child is 4 feet, 9 inches or taller.
- Recommends that all infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing seat as long as possible.
- Requires car seats be used according to the manufacturer's instructions and use a child passenger restraint system meeting federal motor vehicle safety standards.
More resources
For instructions on choosing a car seat and how to properly install a child safety seat, visit Minnesota Department of Public Safety website.