[soccermom]

Not only are babies supposed to be in the back seat, but their seats are rear-facing, so you can't see the baby. If the baby falls asleep, I can see how she might have zoned out on her way to work -- especially if she were just getting back to work after some leave time. It is an awful story -- very sad.

[justche]

Not every state requires them to be in the back state. Most recommend it. For me personally, my driving was much safer when I could see into the rear facing seat - and adjust what was necessary, instead of trying to watch in the rear view mirror and reaching back to adjust, not knowing if I was getting the sun out of her eyes, etc.