District Of Columbia § 50-1702 - Definitions.

Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 50-1702 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 50-1702. Definitions.

50-1702

As used in this chapter the term:

(1)

“Child restraint seat” means any motor vehicle restraint system which has been designed to protect children and has been approved pursuant to § 50-1704 .

(2)

“Operator” means a person who drives or is in actual physical control of a vehicle.

(3)

“Properly restrained,” when used in reference to the use of a safety belt, means secured with the lap portion of a safety belt which is provided in a motor vehicle; and when used in reference to the use of a child restraint seat, means secured in a child restraint seat which itself has been fastened to the motor vehicle by a safety belt and in which all securing straps are being used.

(4)

“Transport” means to have a child of less than 16 years of age as a passenger in a motor vehicle while the operator is seated in the driver position and the motor vehicle is either parked or in motion.

(5)

“Motor vehicle” means any device with more than 3 wheels and a seating capacity of 8 or fewer passengers, exclusive of the operator, which is propelled by an internal-combustion engine, electricity, or steam, and which is designed, used, or maintained for passenger or recreational purposes, or which is designed, used, or maintained for transporting freight, merchandise, or other commercial loads or property.

The term “motor vehicle” does not include any device which is used for livery, sightseeing, taxi, ambulance, funeral, or farm purposes; or any device with more than 3 wheels which is propelled by an internal-combustion engine, electricity, or steam and which has a seating capacity of more than 8 passengers, exclusive of the operator.

Annotations

Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 50-1702

What does D.C. Code § 50-1702 cover?

Section 50-1702 ("Definitions.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite District Of Columbia § 50-1702?

A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 50-1702" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.

How does District Of Columbia § 50-1702 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.