The best recommendation would be to follow the most stringent policy. For instance, Indiana law requires children under the age of 11 to be properly restrained in all seating positions of a vehicle, and children under the age of 3 to be restrained in an appropriate child safety seat. Illinois law requires children under the age of 15 to be properly restrained in all seating positions, and children through age 7 to be restrained in an appropriate child safety seat. (You can also look into child safety laws for each state at www.safekids.org.) I would recommend, at a minimum, following the Illinois law guidelines.

However, the best practice for safe transport of children often goes above and beyond the requirements of child restraint law. For instance, the safest and best method of transportation is for every passenger to be properly restrained on every trip. This includes use of a child safety seat with an internal harness system up to 40 pounds, and use of a belt-positioning booster seat from 40 to 80 pounds or 4 feet, 9 inches.

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