Louisiana’s child car seat laws are designed to keep children safe by requiring age- and size-appropriate restraints in all vehicles. Properly securing a child can greatly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash — but when accidents happen, even the best car seats can’t prevent every tragedy.
At the Law Office of John W. Redmann, L.L.C., our Metairie car accident lawyers help families seek justice and fair compensation after a child is injured in a crash or due to a defective car seat. Contact us today at (504) 500-5000 for a free consultation and learn how we can help protect your family’s rights.
How Can the Law Office of John W. Redmann, L.L.C. Help You After a Car Accident in Louisiana?
When a child is hurt in a car accident, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming—especially if a defective car seat contributed to the injury. At the Law Office of John W. Redmann, L.L.C., our Metairie personal injury lawyers bring over 30 years of combined experience and a proven record of success, having recovered more than $100 million for accident victims across Louisiana.
When you choose our firm to handle your case, we will:
- Conduct a detailed investigation to uncover the cause of the crash and identify all responsible parties
- Work with respected experts in accident reconstruction, biomechanics, and child safety
- Handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing parties
- Calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical costs, emotional trauma, and future needs
- Negotiate for a fair settlement—or present a strong case at trial if necessary
Led by an AV Preeminent-rated attorney recognized by The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and named a 2023 Best Law Firm by New Orleans CityBusiness, our team is known for exceptional advocacy and compassionate client service.
Call the Law Office of John W. Redmann, L.L.C. today for a free consultation with a trusted Metairie car accident lawyer. Let us put our experience and results to work for your family.
Key Legal Louisiana Child Car Seat Laws Parents Need to Know
Louisiana car seat laws require specific types of child restraint systems based on a child’s weight, age, and height. The goal is to maximize safety and compliance with federal standards.
Key provisions for car seats in Louisiana, including Metairie, include:
Rear-Facing Child Car Seats
Children under 2 years old must use a federally approved rear-facing child restraint system. Children under two should remain in a rear-facing car seat until their weight or height exceeds the manufacturer’s limits for that seat. A rear-facing car seat helps protect a child’s head, spine, and neck in crashes.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends leaving a child in a rear-facing car seat until they outgrow the manufacturer’s weight and height restrictions. Three types of rear-facing car seats allow children to remain in this position for more than two years.
Forward-Facing Child Car Seats
Once a child reaches 2 years old and outgrows rear-facing limits, they must use a forward-facing car seat with an internal harness. They should remain in a forward-facing car seat until they are four years old and have outgrown the car seat’s weight and height limitations.
Booster Seats
Children who outgrow forward-facing seats must use booster seats from the age of 4 to the age of 9. Generally, a child will outgrow a booster seat when their height reaches 4 feet and 9 inches. At that time, they can transition to the adult safety belt system.
Seat Belt Use and Back Seat Requirement
Louisiana law requires children under 13 years of age to be seated in the rear seat of a vehicle when available. They must be secured with lap and shoulder belts. This law aligns with national safety guidance for crash protection.
General Child Restraint Law in Louisiana
All drivers transporting children under 18 must properly restrain them in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and federal safety standards. Adherence to these rules not only avoids legal penalties but also critically reduces the risk of catastrophic injury or death in traffic accidents.
Penalties for Failure to Comply with Louisiana Car Seat Laws
Failure to comply with Louisiana child car seat laws may result in fines and penalties. Generally, violators are fined $100 for the first offense. The second offense can result in fines of up to $500. A third or subsequent offense results in a $500 fine plus court costs.
Child Passenger Safety Resources in Louisiana
It is estimated that 95% of car seats are incorrectly installed. An improperly installed car seat could increase a child’s risk of injury in a car accident.
The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission supports fitting stations staffed by certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians, offering free installation checks and education to ensure correct seat use. The Louisiana State Police and several safety programs throughout the state provide car seat safety checks and guidance.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Metairie Car Accident Lawyers
If your child was injured in a car accident or harmed by a defective car seat, your family may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. These cases can be complex, especially when they involve young children and product defects.
At the Law Office of John W. Redmann, L.L.C., our experienced Metairie car accident lawyers understand the challenges families face after a serious crash. We’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the justice your child deserves. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help.