At what weight must children use a seatbelt instead of a booster seat?

In Missouri, children must use a seatbelt instead of a booster seat when they weigh 80 pounds or more. This regulation is based on safety standards that aim to ensure children are adequately secured in the vehicle, providing them with the protection they need in the event of an accident.

The transition from a booster seat to a seatbelt is determined not just by age but also by weight in order to ensure that the seatbelt fits the child properly, securing them effectively and minimizing the risk of injury. A child weighing 80 pounds is generally large enough for the seatbelt to be positioned correctly across their body, which includes the lap belt laying snugly across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt across the chest.

Understanding these guidelines is essential for compliance with Missouri laws and the safety of child passengers in vehicles.