The Car Seat and Taxi Dilemma

Does this scenario sound familiar? You have to get to and from the airport in a taxi, but you don’t want to tote 20 pounds of car seat with you. According to the American Automobile Club of California, transportation vehicles like taxi cabs and shuttles don’t have the same requirements that passenger vehicles have for child safety seats. State laws regarding putting a car seat in a taxi do vary. For instance, in Massachusetts, it’s the parent’s responsibility to provide a car seat, although drivers can be fined. However, requirements are one thing and safety is another. You do have some alternatives.

• Use a limousine service and hire out a town car or stretch limo. Some places do have car seats, so you’ll have to check around.
• Call various taxi cab companies. Many do not carry car seats, but there are a few out there that do. If you find one, use them.
• Call in a favor from a trusted friend or relative and have them drop you off and pick you up from the airport.
• For toddlers there is a product available called the Tote N Go Portable car seat. If you have an older infant or toddler who is at least 25 pounds, it’s an affordable purchase that meets federal car seat standards.