When you’re shopping for a car seat, it can be tempting to buy a used one. After all, used car seats are often cheaper than new ones. But is it actually illegal to sell a used car seat? It depends on the state. In some states, it is legal to sell a used car seat. However, in other states, selling a used car seat is considered child endangerment and can result in criminal charges. So if you’re in doubt about whether or not it’s legal to sell a used car seat in your state, it’s best to consult with an attorney.
What is a Used Car Seat?
Used car seats can be a great way to save money on your car purchase. However, before you buy a used car seat, make sure that it is safe and legal to do so. Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a used car seat:
-Make sure the seat is still in good condition. Check for cracks or tears in the fabric, and make sure the straps are still tight.
-Check the safety certification. All brands of car seats must meet certain safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Make sure the seat has been certified by an accredited organization, like NHTSA.
-Be aware of counterfeit safety certifications. Some unscrupulous sellers may try to sell counterfeit seats as certified products. Look for stickers that say “CPSC Certified” or “SEAT approved.” If you cannot find these stickers, be suspicious.
-Check for recalls. Many car manufacturers issue recalls for their products every year. Before buying a used seat, check to see if there is a recall for that model of carseat in your area. You can also use online resources like CarMax’s Recalls Center or NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline to see if there are any recent recalls for that particular make and model of carseat.
Background of Used Car Seats
Used car seats have been associated with many dangers and concerns for years. Many people think it is illegal to sell a used car seat, but this is not always the case. In most states, it is legal to sell a used car seat as long as it meets safety standards. However, there are still some concerns that buyers should be aware of before buying a used car seat.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that new car seats be replaced every five years or when their safety features no longer meet current safety standards. However, this doesn’t always happen because parents don’t want to spend the money on a new car seat or they can’t find the right one for their child. According to the NHTSA, “Upwards of 85 percent of children ages 1-4 years old ride in rear-facing child restraint systems until at least age 6 years.” Rear-facing seats protect children from head injuries and other serious injuries in a crash.
When selling a used car seat, make sure you take into account the age and size of your child. Make sure the seat can fit properly in your vehicle and that it has all of the safety features required by law. Also, be sure to ask the buyer if they are planning on using the seat in a rear-facing position.
Laws Regarding Used Car Seats
When it comes to purchasing a used car seat, there are a few laws that you should be aware of. In most states, it is illegal to sell or give away a car seat that is not in “new condition.” This means that the car seat must be in the same condition as when it was new, without any signs of wear or tear.
Some states also have laws prohibiting the sale of expired car seats. This means that car seats that are more than six months old cannot be sold or given away. Ideally, car seats should be replaced every three years, but six-month expiration dates are often accepted as equivalent.
Another law you may want to be aware of is the Child Passenger Protection Act (CPCA). The CPCA is a federal law that prohibits airlines from seating children under age two in a rear-facing child restraint unless those children are properly restrained according to safety standards. This means that if you’re selling or giving away a child restraint that’s been used on an airplane, make sure it’s been properly re-certified and is compliant with the CPCA.
Conclusion
It’s always important to do your research before selling anything, including a used car seat. State and local laws vary on whether or not it is legal to sell a used car seat. If you’re unsure about the legality of selling a car seat in your area, it’s best to consult with an attorney.