What all Parents Should Know
As parents, keeping your children safe in the car is a top priority — and understanding Arizona’s child passenger safety laws is key to doing just that. One of the most common questions we get is: When can my child sit in the front seat? The answer depends on your child’s age, size, and what’s safest according to both the law and safety experts.
Arizona Law on Front Seat Age Requirements
Arizona Revised Statute § 28-907 governs child restraint systems. While the law doesn’t specifically prohibit a child from riding in the front seat, it does outline strict rules for car seat and booster seat use for children under the age of 8 or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches. The law is designed to keep children in the back seat until they are large enough for a standard seatbelt to properly protect them.
Legally, children over the age of 8 or taller than 4 feet 9 inches may sit in the front seat, but that doesn’t always mean it’s the safest option.
What the Experts Say: Safety First
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) both recommend that children under the age of 13 ride in the back seat of a vehicle whenever possible. This is because front airbags can cause serious injury or death to smaller passengers during a collision — even if the child is properly restrained.
When Is It Safe to Move to the Front Seat?
While Arizona law sets the minimum legal requirements, safety experts advise the following before transitioning your child to the front:
- Age: At least 13 years old
- Height: Taller than 4’9”
- Maturity: Can sit still with proper posture, without leaning or slouching
- Proper Restraint: Always use the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt, never just one or the other
Why It Matters Legally and Practically
While letting your child sit in the front seat may seem like a milestone, failing to comply with Arizona’s child restraint laws can lead to citations, fines, and increased liability if you’re in an accident. More importantly, premature front seat use could lead to avoidable injuries.
At Rideout Law Group, we represent parents and guardians across Arizona — including Scottsdale, Lake Havasu City, and throughout Maricopa and Mohave Counties — who want to make safe, informed decisions. Whether you’re navigating a legal case involving car accidents, child custody, or CPS concerns, our attorneys are here to guide you.
Related Legal Services from Rideout Law Group
- Arizona Family Law Attorneys in Lake Havasu
- Child Custody Lawyers in Scottsdale
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Arizona
- Personal Injury Representation After Car Accidents
Still have questions about child safety or legal obligations as a parent in Arizona? Contact Rideout Law Group for trusted, local legal guidance. Call us at (833) 854-8181 or visit our offices in Scottsdale or Lake Havasu City for a confidential consultation.
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