california laws on child restraint systems forward facing

Using harness slots not specified for forward-facing use may lead to child restraint shell failure, as some lower slots on convertible restraints are not reinforced for loading in frontal mode. For forward-facing restraints, erroneously placing the harness shoulder straps in slots located below the shoulders has the consequence of introducing slack in the harness, as the child’s torso can move forward before the straps begin restraining the shoulder and also creating increased compression loading in the spinal cord. The shoulder straps of the forward-facing harness should be routed to shell slots located at or above the child’s shoulders. Failure to buckle the harness or route the harness properly could result in ejection or serious injury to thoracic and abdominal organs. Loose harness straps will allow the child greater movement toward vehicle interior surfaces and generate higher loads on the child when the system finally pulls up tight to resist movement. Most current products have a single pull harness adjustment strap or knob that makes it easier to tighten the harness so it is snug around the child compared with earlier designs.

The buckle, which is on the end of the crotch strap, is routed between the child’s legs, and serves to hold the lap straps down on top of the thighs, so it should be as short as possible. Straps go over each shoulder and the lower portions form a lap belt across the thighs as two latchplates connect to a central buckle. The five-point strap harness arrangement is generally styled after military and racing harnesses. However, the tray shield style may be helpful for caregivers with a lack of dexterity who may be unable to appropriately buckle the harness. The five-point harness styles are generally preferred because they permit a snug fit around the child. Current child restraints are equipped with a five-point harness (left), although a few child restraint models still secure the child with a tray shield and shoulder straps (right). The ability of a forward-facing restraint to provide effective protection depends on harness fit and snugness as well as tight coupling to the vehicle.

In addition, all current forward-facing child restraints recommend use of the tether with any installation to reduce head excursion during a crash, and some manufacturers require tether use for the heavier children. Both forward-facing child restraint types are installed with a seatbelt or LATCH lower attachments. These higher-weight harness systems may include higher slots for routing the harness straps at or above the shoulders of a larger child, as well as higher seatbacks that need to extend to a height at or above the child’s ears to protect against rearward bending of the neck. However, many current models now accommodate children up to 30 to 40 kg (65 to 90 lb) using the harness system. Historically, forward-facing restraints were made for use with a harness for a child up to only 18 kg (40 lb).

California laws on child restraint systems forward facing