Riverside County is committed to child passenger safety, offering comprehensive programs to educate and assist residents in properly securing their children in vehicles. Understanding and adhering to car seat and seat belt laws is crucial for protecting young lives and avoiding legal penalties. This article outlines the key programs available in Riverside County, including the Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program and the Low Cost Car Seat Distribution Program.
Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD)
The Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD) is a two-hour educational class designed for individuals who have received citations for car seat or seat belt violations in Riverside County. This program offers participants the opportunity to reduce their fines by attending a class that emphasizes the critical importance of seat belt use and proper car seat installation. A requirement for the VOPD class is that participants cited for a car seat infraction must bring a federally approved car seat, free from recalls, to the session. Trained professionals lead these classes, providing valuable insights into child passenger safety best practices and the potential dangers of neglecting these safety measures.
Low Cost Car Seat Distribution Program
Riverside County’s Low Cost Car Seat Distribution Program is a vital resource for families who qualify for low-income assistance programs such as Medi-Cal or WIC. This program aims to make car seats and booster seats more accessible to eligible residents. Participants can begin the registration process by calling 1-800-455-4942. Enrolled individuals are required to attend a one-hour class, available in both English and Spanish, where they receive essential education on car seat safety. Upon completion of the class, participants will receive a car seat or booster seat. Classes are held at 10 locations throughout Riverside County and are exclusively for adults, as childcare services are not provided. To support the sustainability of this program, a modest fee of $30 per car seat is required, payable in advance by money order.
Accessing Certified CPS Technicians
For residents seeking expert guidance, certified Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technicians are available to provide personalized assistance. These technicians can offer advice and hands-on help with car seat selection, installation, and ensuring children are properly secured. To connect with a certified CPS technician in Riverside County, please call 1-951-358-7171. This resource is invaluable for ensuring the highest levels of child passenger safety.
