Parents now fined for not using booster seats
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Updated: 11:09 PM Jul 5, 2009
Parents now fined for not using booster seats
There's no more warning for parents who do not put young children in booster seats.
Posted: 5:20 PM Jul 5, 2009
Reporter: Michel Mason
Email Address: michel.mason@wymtnews.com
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There's no more warning for parents who do not put young children in booster seats. Police in Kentucky are now handing out fines if they find certain children riding in a car without one. Officials say the law makes a huge difference when it comes to safety.

First it was a warning, now it's a fine for parents of children that are not riding in a booster seat.

Although the law went into effect a year ago, state police are finding many parents are still not aware.

"I have seen a lot of kids under 50 inches not be in a booster seat. I think a lot of people just haven't learned about it," said Trooper Jennifer Sandlin.

Officials say for some children, a seat belt alone is simply not enough, especially if they're under a certain height. They say raising a child to the proper level will allow the seat belt to do its job and not cause further injury in a crash.

Any child between 40 and 50 inches, under the age of seven must be in a booster seat. If not, parents face a $30 fine. Medics say it's a law that could make their job easier.

"We work a lot of accidents where there's children sent to the hospital, and this would probably help reduce the risk a whole lot," said Hazard Fire Captain Leonard Toler.

The booster seat law went into effect last July. Police stopped giving warnings and began issuing fines this month.


Latest Comments

Posted by: Amanda Location: Floyd County on Jul 6, 2009 at 03:58 PM

I think that this is great. But what about the children that ride a school bus? My son is 46 inches tall and will be on the bus this fall. Seat belts aren't even worn on the bus. I am concerned about him being on there without a seat belt let alone without a booster seat! But again I say this is great for the fines. It will keep more kids safe and make more parents responsible.
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Posted by: john Location: jackso on Jul 6, 2009 at 03:12 PM

hey someone. you sure didn't pay much attention. 50 inches is 4 feet (two)2 inches. anyhow they should be in booster seats. cheers
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Posted by: Someone who paid attention in school Location: Floyd County on Jul 6, 2009 at 12:32 PM

To Darrell: No dear, you don't need a booster seat. 50 inches is the same as 4 feet and 1 inch. If you are 5 feet tall then you are 60 inches tall and therefore have nothing to worry about. The police will only write you a ticket if you are not wearing a seat belt, speeding, driving while under the influence, reckless driving, etc.
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