Is the LATCH system safer to use than seat belts?

L.A.T.C.H. (lower anchor and tether for children) is equally as safe to use as the vehicle seat belt.  LATCH was designed to make the installation of a child safety seat more user friendly to parents, grandparents and caregivers.

LATCH is a three point system.  All vehicles manufactured from 2003 must have at least two rear seating positions equipped with latch anchor points.  One of the anchor points is for the tether strap and is located to the rear of the vehicle seat.  The other two anchor points are located in the bite of the vehicle seat.  All three positions are clearly marked.  Each car seat is equipped with hooks or clips that lock onto the anchor points.  The straps are then tightened for a secure fit.

You do not use both the LATCH system and the seat belt at the same time.  Most vehicles manufactured between 2000 and 2003 will only have a rear tether anchor point.  You should make use of it in conjunction with the vehicle seat belt.  Lower anchor points should not be used to restrain a child weighing 48 pounds or more.