What is the proper cab etiquette in regards to small kids?

Question

I have a 2 year old and am totally new to the "call a cab" thing (having grown up in the boonies) and I'm wondering if you have to have a carseat for a cab, or if (for short trips) if you can just hold the kid or put her in a normal car seat. I have to go down the road, it's like a 15 minute trip tops, but I don't have anyone to watch her while I go.

Help!

Answer 1

I believe that cabs are exempt from having to have carseats.  However, I would never take my child anywhere without a carseat.  I just wouldn't risk it.  If you have a carseat, put it in the cab and use it.  Of course this would mean you'll need to carry the seat with you once you reach your destination.   If you don't have a carseat and you're comfortable with it, just seatbelt your child in.  Definitely use the seatbelt rather than just holding her -- the seatbelt would be safer in case of an accident.

Answer 2

Could you take a bus instead? If you sit in the center of the bus it's safest.

Ask the cab driver to take back roads, as there might be less of a chance of an accident?

Some cab companies now have minivans. Request one of those, as they may have better safety features.

If this is just an infrequent trip you could try to get neighbors' teenage kids to babysit.

I'm sure this is a very common problem for mothers!