What is crucial for the safe use of booster seats in vehicles?

The safe use of booster seats in vehicles centers around the proper fit of the seat belt across the child's body. A booster seat is designed to elevate a child so the vehicle's seat belt fits correctly, which is essential for their safety in the event of a crash. If the seat belt does not fit properly, it can lead to serious injuries. For an optimal fit, the lap belt should lie low across the child’s hips, not across the stomach, and the shoulder belt should cross the middle of the child's chest and shoulder.

Addressing other factors, while the color of the booster seat or its price may be considerations for some parents, they do not influence safety. Similarly, the frequency of use—whether for long distances or short trips—should not determine when a booster seat is needed, as it should be used whenever the child is in the vehicle and requires it to ensure proper seat belt fit.