According to Transportation Code 545.412, what requirement must be met when transporting a child younger than eight years in a vehicle?

The requirement stated in Transportation Code 545.412 specifies that a child younger than eight years must be secured in a child safety seat when being transported in a vehicle. This regulation is designed to enhance the safety of younger passengers, as proper restraints significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of a collision. Child safety seats are specifically designed to provide optimal support and protection for children, tailored to their size and weight, making them more effective than standard seat belts alone for this age group.

The other options, while they may seem related to child passenger safety, do not correctly reflect the legal requirement established in the Transportation Code. Using a booster seat or sitting in the front seat does not apply universally to all children under eight, and while height can play a role in other safety recommendations, the law specifically mandates the use of a child safety seat for this age group. Therefore, the emphasis on securing a child in a child safety seat is a critical component of ensuring their safety while traveling in a vehicle.