Safe Travels in North Dakota: Car Seat Laws in Taxis, Airport Transfers, and Car Rentals

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​Ensuring your child's safety while traveling in North Dakota requires understanding the state's car seat laws and their application across various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, taxis, ride-shares, airport transfers, and rental cars. This guide provides an overview of North Dakota's regulations and practical advice to help you navigate family travel safely.​

North Dakota Car Seat Laws Overview

North Dakota law mandates specific child restraint requirements based on age, height, and weight:​

• Children younger than 8 years old: Must be secured in a child restraint system (car seat or booster seat) appropriate for the child's age, weight, and height, and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. If a child is at least 4 feet 9 inches tall, a seat belt may be used instead of a child restraint system. ​Ward CountyNDDOT Vision Zero | Home

• Children aged 8 through 17: Must be properly secured in a seat belt or an appropriate child restraint system, regardless of seating position in the vehicle. ​

The driver is responsible for ensuring all occupants under 18 are properly restrained. Violations can result in a $25 fine and one point against the driver's license. ​Ward CountyO'Keeffe O'Brien Advokatbyrå+3Central Valley Hälsa+3Ward County+3

Car Seat Requirements in Taxis and Ride-Shares

North Dakota's child passenger safety laws apply to all vehicles equipped with seat belts, including taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft. However, these 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 state laws and maximize safety.​

Car Seat Policies for Rental Cars

When renting a vehicle in North Dakota, standard car seat laws apply. Most major car rental companies offer child safety seats as optional add-ons to comply with state 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

North Dakota's major airports, such as Hector International Airport (FAR) in Fargo and Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS), offer 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.​

Types of Car Seats

Selecting the appropriate car seat depends on your child's age, weight, and height:

• Rear-Facing Car Seats: Ideal for infants and young toddlers, offering the best protection in a collision.​

• Forward-Facing Car Seats: Suitable for toddlers and preschoolers who have outgrown rear-facing seats.​

• Booster Seats: Designed for older children who have outgrown forward-facing seats, positioning the seat belt properly across the child's body.​

Conclusion

Ensuring your child's safety while traveling in North Dakota involves understanding and adhering to state car seat laws, even when using taxis, ride-shares, airport transfers, or rental cars. While these services may not provide car seats, it's 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.