You should not leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle for any length of time. If children are trapped inside cars—especially in hot weather—they can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke in a matter of minutes, leading to permanent disability or death. Heat stroke, also known as hyperthermia, can cause shock, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and heart attack, as well as brain, liver, and kidney damage. Leaving a child unattended in a car is also a form of neglectful supervision that is investigated by Child Protective Services.
In Connecticut, leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle is considered a serious offense, particularly due to the risks associated with heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Connecticut General Statutes Section 53-21a specifically addresses this issue, making it illegal to leave a child under the age of 12 unsupervised in a motor vehicle. The law applies when the conditions present a risk to the child's health or safety, or when the vehicle's engine is running or the keys are in the ignition. Violation of this statute can result in a charge of leaving a child unsupervised in a place of public accommodation or a motor vehicle, which is a class A misdemeanor. This can lead to penalties including fines and imprisonment. Additionally, such an act can be considered neglectful supervision and may trigger an investigation by Child Protective Services, which could result in further legal consequences and interventions.