How far apart must lower anchors be installed in a vehicle?

The required distance for lower anchors in a vehicle is standardized to ensure safe and consistent installation of child safety seats using the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. The correct answer, which specifies that lower anchors must be installed 11 inches apart, aligns with the specifications set forth by regulatory bodies to facilitate proper installation of child restraints.

Lower anchors are designed to secure child safety seats directly to the vehicle structure without the use of the vehicle's seat belt. This installation allows for a more stable and secure fit, reducing the risk of injury during a crash. Ensuring that the anchors are placed the correct distance apart is critical for the compatibility of various car seats, which may have different designs that require specific anchor spacing to function correctly.

Understanding this standard is vital for technicians and caregivers to ensure that child safety seats can be effectively utilized, providing better protection for children while traveling.