Safety Laws

This is a resource for the public to be aware of any important safety legislature that has gone into effect or will go into effect. Together, we can make a difference and provide a safer world for our children. Please check us out frequently for new updates.

Cellphone / Texting Law

On April 12, 2010, Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear signed a bill into law that will ban texting while driving for all drivers and all cell phone use for drivers under the age of 18. The law bans texting for drivers of all ages while the vehicle is in motion. For drivers over the age of 18, it allows the use of global positioning devices and reading, selecting or entering a telephone number or name for the purpose of making a phone call. For drivers under 18, no use of personal communication devices such as cell phones and pagers is allowed while the vehicle is in motion. Texting is allowed only to report illegal activity or to request medical or emergency aid. Law enforcement officers will issue warnings until Jan. 1, 2011. On or after January 1, violators will be liable for fines of $25 on a first offense and $50 on each subsequent offense, plus court costs.

Enhanced Booster Seat Law Effective June 2015

Gov. Steve Beshear signed into legislation an enhanced child booster seat law that went into effect June 24, 2015. Children under eight years of age or who are between 40 and 57 inches tall are required to ride in a booster seat. Children younger than 8 but taller than 57 inches will not have to ride in a booster seat. Violators will receive a citation with a $30 fine but not court costs. Violators will have the option to purchase a booster seat instead of paying the fine. The new requirements are part of KRS 189.125, which sets forth guidelines for child safety seats, booster seats and seat belts. 

Rear-facing Car Seats

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children in car seats stay rear-facing until 2 years of age or until they reach the maximum height and weight for the seat. It also advises that children must remain in a belt-positioning booster seat until they have reached the height of 4 feet and 9 inches and are between the ages of 8 and 12. To learn more, see the official recommendation.