Final answer:
In Washington, children under 13 must use car seats or booster seats appropriate for their age and size. Children 0 to 2.5 must be in a rear-facing seat, ages 2.5 to 6 in a forward-facing seat, and ages 6-13 in boosters until they fit properly in a seat belt.
Step-by-step explanation:
The regulations for child restraint when transporting children under the age of 13 in Washington are specific to the age and size of the child. For children ages 0 to 2.5, they must be in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height limit of the seat. Children ages 2.5 to 6 must be secured in a forward-facing car seat with a harness. Then, children ages 6-13 must ride in a booster seat until they are tall enough to properly fit in a vehicle's seat belt. The lap belt must lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach, and the shoulder belt should cross the shoulder and chest without cutting into the neck or face. Once children are older than 13, they are generally permitted to use the seat belt without a booster, though safety recommendations advise them to sit in the rear seats until age 13. It is essential for the safety of child passengers to follow these guidelines closely.