Michigan § 750.135a - Leaving child unattended in vehicle; prohibition; violation; definitions.
Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.135a — Leaving child unattended in vehicle; prohibition; violation; definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 750.135a. Leaving child unattended in vehicle; prohibition; violation; definitions.
(1) A person who is responsible for the care or welfare of a child shall not leave that child unattended in a vehicle for a period of time that poses an unreasonable risk of harm or injury to the child or under circumstances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm or injury to the child.
(2) A person who violates this section is guilty of a crime as follows:
(a) Except as otherwise provided in subdivisions (b) to (d), the person is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 93 days or a fine of not more than $500.00, or both.
(b) If the violation results in physical harm other than serious physical harm to the child, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $1,000.00, or both.
(c) If the violation results in serious physical harm to the child, the person is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 10 years or a fine of not more than $5,000.00, or both.
(d) If the violation results in the death of the child, the person is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 15 years or a fine of not more than $10,000.00, or both.
(3) As used in this section:
(a) "Child" means an individual less than 6 years of age.
(b) "Physical harm" and "serious physical harm" mean those terms as defined in section 136b.
(c) "Unattended" means alone or without the supervision of an individual 13 years of age or older who is not legally incapacitated.
(d) "Vehicle" means that term as defined in section 79 of the Michigan vehicle code, 1949 PA 300, MCL 257.79.
Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 750.135a
What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.135a cover?
Section 750.135a ("Leaving child unattended in vehicle; prohibition; violation; definitions.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. 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 Michigan § 750.135a?
A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.135a" (Michigan). 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 Michigan law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.
How does Michigan § 750.135a apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan 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 Michigan.