Maine Car Seat Laws

The most precious cargo you carry in your vehicle is your child. Maine has specific car seat laws designed to protect children and prevent injuries in car accidents. Here’s a simple guide to understanding these life-saving requirements.

Why Car Seats Matter

According to Maine’s Department of Public Safety, motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of unintentional deaths of children under 16 in the United States. Properly using car seats, booster seats, and seat belts can significantly reduce these risks. By securing your child correctly, you help protect them from being thrown or injured during a crash or sudden stop.

Car Seat Requirements By Age and Weight

Here are Maine’s car seat laws you need to know:

Children Under 2 Years Old

Must ride in a rear-facing car seat or convertible seat set in the rear-facing position.
If the child exceeds the manufacturer’s height or weight limit, they can transition to a forward-facing position.
Fines: $50 for the first offense, $125 for the second, and $250 for subsequent offenses.

Ages 2+ and Under 55 Pounds

Must use a car seat with an internal harness.
If too tall for the car seat, a federally approved booster seat is required.
Same fines apply for violations.

Ages 7 and Under, Under 80 pounds, and Under 57 Inches Tall

Must ride in a booster seat.
Same fines apply for violations.

Ages 12 and Under

Must use a seat belt in the back seat whenever possible.
Fines apply for violations.

All Other Passengers

Anyone not meeting the criteria above must wear a seat belt.

Car Seat Safety Inspections

Proper installation is critical. According to Maine’s Department of Public Safety, three out of every four children in car seats or booster seats are not used correctly. Maine offers:

Car Seat Check Events and Inspection Stations where certified technicians assist with installation.
Help using either seat belts or the LATCH system, a standard feature in vehicles since 2002.

Common Child Car Accident Injuries

Even when car seats are used properly, children can still suffer serious injuries, including:

Traumatic brain injuries (e.g., concussions)
Fractures and dislocations
Chest injuries from seat belts
Facial trauma from broken glass
Spinal cord injuries due to flexible necks
Emotional trauma like PTSD

If your child was injured in a crash, reach out to the compassionate and experienced Maine car accident lawyers at Fales & Fales, P.A. for legal guidance and assistance. We can discuss your options for pursuing justice and accountability through a car accident claim.

Replacing Car Seats After a Crash

After any crash, replace the car seat—even if it looks undamaged. The impact can compromise its safety, putting your child at risk. You can include the replacement cost in a personal injury claim.