When did regulations begin requiring the installation of lower anchors in vehicles?

Regulations requiring the installation of lower anchors in vehicles began in September 2002. This was part of the implementation of the Child Safety Seat Law that mandated that all vehicles manufactured from this date onwards be equipped with lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) systems. The objective behind this regulation was to improve the safety and ease of securing child safety seats in vehicles, thereby reducing the risk of injury during car accidents.

The timing is essential to understand; in the years leading up to 2002, many vehicle manufacturers and safety organizations were advocating for better child restraint systems, but it wasn't until the regulations were formally established that installation became standard practice in vehicles. Recognizing September 2002 as the baseline allows safety technicians to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of using LATCH where applicable in vehicles produced after this date.