What is the main purpose of requiring infants to ride facing the rear of the car?

The primary reason for requiring infants to ride facing the rear of the car is to maximize safety in the event of a crash. When an accident occurs, a rear-facing car seat provides crucial support to an infant's head, neck, and spine, helping to distribute the forces of a collision more evenly and reducing the risk of serious injury. This positioning allows the seat to act as a protective shell that cradles the child's body, minimizing the impact force that would otherwise affect vulnerable areas.

The other options do not address the essential safety considerations that rear-facing car seats are designed to provide. While allowing infants to see out of the window, making it easier for parents to feed them, or complying with vehicle regulations may be factors in overall car seat use, the foremost priority is the protection of the child during a crash. Governor mandates and safety recommendations universally emphasize this rear-facing position as the safest choice for young passengers.