Children should ride in the rear seat until what age?

Children should ride in the rear seat until they are 12 years old to ensure their safety while traveling in a vehicle. This recommendation aligns with safety guidelines established by various health and safety organizations, which emphasize that the rear seat is the safest location for younger passengers. This is particularly important in the event of a collision, as the rear seat is typically farther away from the most common points of impact in a crash.

While it may be tempting to think that older ages might be acceptable for rear seat riding, the age of 12 is chosen based on a balance of factors, including the developmental size of children and the reduced risk of injury. Parents and guardians are encouraged to keep their children in the rear seat until they reach this age, or until they have outgrown the appropriate safety restraints for their size and weight, ensuring proper protection at all times.