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 Wyoming, there is no specific statute that directly addresses leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle. However, general child endangerment laws apply. Under Wyoming Statutes Title 6. Crimes and Offenses, Chapter 2, Section 6-2-503, a person can be charged with child endangerment for knowingly and willfully causing or permitting a child to be placed in a situation that endangers the child's life or health. This can include situations where a child is left unattended in a vehicle, especially under conditions that pose a risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If a child suffers harm as a result of being left in a car, more serious charges such as child abuse or manslaughter could be brought against the responsible party. Additionally, Child Protective Services may investigate instances of neglectful supervision, which can include leaving a child unattended in a vehicle.