Safety Laws in Alabama

Seat Belts

Alabama's "Click It or Ticket" program is a daily reminder to use your vehicle's seat belt―it's the law. This nationally-recognized program carries a strong message with it: "If you aren't buckled up, you WILL get a ticket―no exceptions, no excuses."

Trucks

Several states have now initialized the program "Buckle Up in your Truck" to complement the "Click It or Ticket" program for passenger cars. Many years ago, when seat belt usage was first being made into law, pickup trucks were exempt―but that is no longer the case. Numerous studies have shown that the use of seat belts, even in pickup trucks, saves lives. The "Buckle Up" program follows the yearly "Click It" campaign, when check-points are set up and tickets are written, to raise public awareness of the laws.

Child Car Seat Laws

The state also enforces child safety seat requirements. Follow the guidelines below for any child you transport:

• Newborns - 1-year-olds: ride in an approved infant-only, rear-facing car seat, in the back seat of the vehicle. These rules apply until the child is one year old or weighs 20 pounds.

• Toddlers, 1-5 years old: ride in a convertible or forward-facing seat, using a lap belt and with the harness at or above the shoulders until the child turns five or weighs 40 pounds.

• Ages 5-6, 40 pounds or heavier: ride in forward-facing booster seat, buckled with the vehicle's safety belt.

All children must use seat belts until the age of 15.

If you're in the market for one, you can shop online for a child car seat at any time. When ordering, be sure the car seat matches your child's height, weight and age.

Cell Phones

Alabama does not yet have any laws concerning cell phone usage while driving. It's wise to avoid the distraction, especially for new or inexperienced drivers. If you need to talk on the cell phone while you're in the car, pull over to a safe spot to have your conversation. Other drivers will appreciate your concern for safety.

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