New Regulations

New Federal regulations are creating child seats that are easier to install and helping to create features in vehicles that make it easier to attach child safety seats.

Upper Tether Strap and Anchor

As of September 1, 2000 all new vehicles, except convertibles, will have a special attachment to secure a top tether strap found on most new child safety seats (since September 1999). This adjustable strap is usually secured to the vehicle in the rear window shelf, floor, or back of vehicle seat. When adjusted securely, the strap keeps the child seat from moving too far forward and reduces the potential for head injuries during a crash. Some child seats may meet the new standard without the use of the tether strap.

Lower Anchorages

Another feature that will be seen in vehicles (by no later than September 2002) is a lower attachment bar that has a matching feature on a child safety seat (hook, buckle, or other connector) that snaps onto the lower anchor bar in the vehicle. This new system, known as LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), may help resolve problems created when child seats are not safely installed.

Also see: Car Safety Seats: A Guide for Families

For more information on the LATCH system, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.