In Maryland, what ages are required to be in a child safety seat?

The requirement in Maryland for child safety seats is that children under age eight must be secured in a safety seat unless they are taller than 4'9". This regulation is designed to ensure the safety of young passengers, as proper restraint reduces the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

Children under eight are still in a developmental stage where traditional seat belts may not fit them properly, making them more vulnerable in the event of a collision. By requiring children of this age group to use safety seats or booster seats, Maryland law aims to provide layers of protection until they reach a height where a standard seat belt can be safely used.

The focus on age and height ensures that the regulations account for variance in growth patterns among children, thus providing a more tailored approach to vehicle safety.