Transporting Older Children in the Front Passenger Seat

It is strongly recommended that children under 12 years of age be transported properly restrained on the rear seat of the vehicle.

Rear seats are the safest location for transporting children of any age and size.

The front airbag, which inflates upon a moderate or severe impact, poses a serious hazard to a child seated in the front passenger seat who is not wearing a seat belt, is wearing it incorrectly, or is sitting improperly, including sitting too close to the airbag.

The side airbag may also pose a hazard. If any part of the child's body is within the deployment area of the side airbag, the child may be seriously injured.

Of course, all children are very different. Therefore, age is not the only factor you should consider when deciding whether a child may ride in the front seat.