Booster seat age goes to 8

A new law increasing the age to which children in vehicles must be restrained in a booster seat to 8 years old goes into effect Aug. 2.

The law applies to vehicles carrying 10 or fewer passengers. Police officers can pull over a car if they suspect a child is not properly restrained; the fine is $50. Currently, Arizona allows a 5 year old to use a seat belt instead of a car seat or booster.

Arizona increased the age partly because motor-vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children 5 to 8 years old, many of whom are not properly restrained at the time of the crash.

Booster seats can be purchased at major retail outlets such as Target and Walmart for as little as $20. For assistance installing the seat, a technician can be located within the community by visiting www.seatcheck.org.

Questions can also be answered by calling the Phoenix office of the Bureau of Child Care Licensing at 602-364-2539.