What is the significance of knowing the car seat's weight and height limits?

Understanding the weight and height limits of a car seat is crucial for ensuring the child is safely positioned within the seat's constraints. Car seats are designed with specific limits for both weight and height to provide optimal protection in the event of a crash. When a child exceeds these limits, the seat may no longer function effectively, putting the child's safety at risk.

Proper fit in the car seat helps to maximize the safety features, such as harnessing mechanisms that are intended to keep the child securely in place during a collision. By adhering to these limits, caregivers can judge when it is appropriate to transition a child to a different seating arrangement or type of car seat, ensuring that the child continues to receive proper protection as they grow. This understanding is foundational in child passenger safety and assists caregivers in making informed decisions about a child's safety while traveling.