When can children transition from a child safety seat to using a safety belt?

The correct answer indicates that children can transition from a child safety seat to using a safety belt once they are at least 8 years old or 4 feet 9 inches tall. This guidance is based on safety standards that emphasize the need for sufficient height to ensure that the vehicle's seat belt fits properly.

At around 8 years old, most children have developed the necessary physical size to safely use a seat belt. Additionally, the height requirement of 4 feet 9 inches ensures that the lap belt fits snugly across the thighs and the shoulder strap lies across the chest, allowing for optimal safety in the event of a crash. Using a seat belt that doesn't fit properly can lead to serious injuries, emphasizing the importance of meeting either the age or height criteria.

Other choices focus solely on age or weight without considering proper fit, which is critical for the effectiveness of a seat belt in protecting children during travel.