What is the protocol when carrying an infant in the lap of an adult passenger?

When carrying an infant in the lap of an adult passenger, the safest protocol is to ensure that the infant is secured with a proper restraint system to provide adequate protection. Using a lap belt only is specifically designed to minimize movement in the event of a sudden stop or collision, but it is important to understand that this method does not provide the same level of protection as a car seat.

In many jurisdictions and according to safety regulations, infants are recommended to be secured with an appropriate car seat, as this is designed to protect them in the event of an accident. Such seats have been tested for safety and provide superior support and restraint for small passengers.

Simply securing the infant with a lap belt or allowing them to travel unrestrained can significantly increase their risk of injury. Therefore, despite the answer that suggests a lap belt may be an option, the best practice emphasizes the use of a car seat as a critical safety measure for infants while traveling.