What does LATCH exactly mean?
Latch is an acroynm that describes the system for attaching a car seat to a vehicle's seat. Meaning Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren.
Each vehicle is different, some offer lower anchors and top tethers in the second row and skip the lower anchors and top tethers in all rear seats. Then of course some vehicles skip this all together. The safest option is lower anchors and tethers.
Can you use a car seat LATCH and a seatbelt together?
If you are using LATCH and seat belts altogether when you shouldn't will stress the car seat in was that the manufacturer didn't anticipate. When a car seat is installed properly, the car seat will absorb the force of the crash, protecting your child. Limiting the car seat's motion by using seatbelts and tethers can cause the crash's force to be redistributed to your child.
But there is an exception, if both your car seat manual and your vehicle's owners manual suggests using LATCH and a seatbelt, you should defintely follow the instructions. As always if you are unsure, contact a CPST for help.
Which is better? LATCH or a seatbelt to secure car seats?
When installed correctly and according to your vehicle's manufacturer, seatbelts and LATCH installed car seats are equally safe. But you need to remember that LATCH has a weight limit of 65 pounds in newer cars and 55 pounds in vehicles older than 2008. This includes the weight of the carseat and the weight of your child combined. As your child grows, you will need to switch from the LATCH system to a seat belt system.
If my vehicle does not have LATCH, can I add it to my car?
No, and do not purchase an aftermarket LATCH kit. Your child will be much safer with a seat belt installation than with an aftermarket LATCH kit that isn't safe.
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