Select your state

Child supervision

child unattended in motor vehicle

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 New York, leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle can have serious legal consequences. While New York does not have a specific statute that makes it illegal to leave a child alone in a car, such actions can be prosecuted under child endangerment laws. Penal Law sections 260.10 and 260.15 address endangering the welfare of a child, which can include leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, especially under conditions that pose a risk to the child's health or safety, such as extreme temperatures. If a child is left in a hot car and suffers from conditions like heat stroke or other injuries, the responsible adult can face charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the harm to the child. Additionally, such incidents are likely to trigger an investigation by Child Protective Services for potential neglect or abuse.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Child supervision

child unattended in motor vehicle

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

New-York State Code

New-York State Code

Articles

Child supervision

child unattended in motor vehicle