New Jersey law mandates the use of child passenger restraint systems for children traveling in motor vehicles. These regulations specifically address the age, weight, and height requirements that necessitate the use of a booster seat, a transitional device positioned between a standard car seat and a seat belt. This ensures the vehicle’s safety features properly protect smaller occupants. For example, a child exceeding the height limit for a car seat but not yet tall enough to use a seat belt alone must utilize a booster seat.
Adherence to these regulations is paramount for child safety and legal compliance. The proper utilization of booster seats reduces the risk of serious injury or fatality in the event of a motor vehicle accident. Historically, injury rates for young children in car accidents were significantly higher until the widespread adoption and enforcement of appropriate child passenger restraint laws. The legal framework surrounding this addresses both the ethical and practical aspects of safeguarding children during vehicular transport.