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California is considering a new bill that would prohibit teenagers up to 16 years old from riding in the front seat of a vehicle if they are not tall enough. This proposed legislation aims to enhance safety for young passengers, as crash statistics indicate that small-framed children are more vulnerable to injuries when not properly seated in the back or using a booster seat.
Currently, California law mandates that children under two years old must ride in a rear-facing car seat unless they weigh 40 or more pounds or are 40 or more inches tall. Children under eight must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat, and those aged eight or at least 4’9” can use a booster seat or seat belt. All children under 13 are advised to sit in the back seat to avoid injuries from airbags, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The bill would require middle schoolers up to age 13 to use booster seats if they are small in size. Traffic safety advocates argue that these measures are necessary to protect children, as airbags in the front seat can cause severe injuries to smaller passengers. The Office of Traffic Safety emphasizes the importance of using the correct car seat for a child's age and size to ensure maximum protection.
While teenagers over 16 can legally sit in the front seat with a seatbelt, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises against it unless necessary. The proposed bill is expected to face debates as it moves through the legislative process.