Safe Travels in New Brunswick: Car Seat Laws in Taxis, Airport Transfers, and Car Rentals
- tscheiman
- Mar 29
- 3 min read
New Brunswick Child Passenger Safety Laws
In New Brunswick, drivers must ensure that any passenger under 9 years old, weighing less than 36 kg (79 lbs), and standing less than 145 cm (57 inches) tall is secured in a properly installed child restraint system. Moss Hachey Law
Recommended Car Seat Progression
While the law specifies minimum requirements, safety experts recommend the following progression based on a child's age, weight, and height:
Rear-Facing Car Seats: Use a rear-facing seat until a baby is at least one year old and weighs 10 kg (22 lbs). gnb.ca
Forward-Facing Car Seats: Once a child has outgrown the rear-facing seat, they should transition to a forward-facing car seat with a harness, suitable for children weighing between 10 kg (22 lbs) and 18 kg (40 lbs).
Booster Seats: After outgrowing the forward-facing seat, children should use a booster seat until they reach 9 years of age, 36 kg (79 lbs), or 145 cm (57 inches) tall, whichever comes first. Booster seats position the seat belt properly across a child's chest and hips, reducing the risk of injury in a collision. gnb.ca
Seat Belts: Once a child meets one of the above criteria, they can transition to using the vehicle's seat belt. Ensure the seat belt fits properly: the lap belt should sit snugly across the hips, and the shoulder belt should cross the chest and shoulder without touching the neck.
Car Seat Requirements in Taxis and Ride-Shares
In New Brunswick, the law requires that all drivers ensure child passengers are properly restrained in appropriate car seats or booster seats, regardless of the type of vehicle. However, taxis and ride-share services typically do not provide child restraint systems. Therefore, parents or guardians should bring and install an appropriate car seat when traveling with young children in these vehicles to ensure compliance with provincial laws and maximize safety.
Car Seat Policies for Rental Cars
When renting a vehicle in New Brunswick, standard car seat laws apply. Most major car rental companies offer child safety seats as optional add-ons to comply with provincial regulations. It's advisable to reserve these seats in advance to ensure availability. However, bringing your own car seat can offer familiarity and assurance of proper fit and installation. If you choose to rent a car seat, ensure it's appropriate for your child's age, weight, and height, and that you understand how to install it correctly.
Safety Considerations for Airport Transfers
New Brunswick's major airport, Fredericton International Airport (YFC), offers various ground transportation options. When arranging airport transfers, consider the following:
Shuttle Services: Some airport shuttle services may provide child seats upon request. It's essential to inquire and reserve in advance.
Private Car Services: Many private transportation companies offer vehicles equipped with child seats. Confirm availability and any additional fees when booking.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violations of New Brunswick's child passenger safety laws can result in a minimum fine of $172.50. Ensuring that children are secured in appropriate child safety seats not only complies with the law but also significantly enhances their safety in the event of a collision.mynbpropertyassessment.ca
Conclusion
Ensuring your child's safety while traveling in New Brunswick involves understanding and adhering to provincial car seat laws, even when using taxis, ride-shares, airport transfers, or rental cars. While these services may not provide car seats, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure an appropriate child restraint system is used. Planning ahead by bringing your own car seat or confirming availability with transportation providers can help ensure a safe and compliant journey for your family.
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