Learn the Law When It Comes To Child Car Seats
In the past children may have travelled in a car unsafely, whether it was by not wearing a safety belt, or because the safety belt was placed in the wrong position. This can be as dangerous as not wearing one in some cases. This is why in 2006, new legislation and laws were introduced with regards to child safety in cars, specifically to do with car seats.
It is now an offence to drive with children in your car without them using the right car seats, the consequences if you are caught are either a ?30 on the spot penalty or a fine of up to ?500. But this pales into insignificance when you consider the realities of not using a proper child seat, which could result in the serious injury or even death of your child. This should prompt all parents to make sure that they are following the laws.
There are two types of child seats available, front facing and rear facing. Rear facing child seats are typically used with babies, and the law states that this type of seat cannot be used with front passenger seats when there is an active passenger airbag present.
Front facing seats are more commonly used with both babies as well as older children. A child seat or booster seat should be used until the child reaches 135cm in height or their 12th birthday – whichever comes first. Drivers must ensure the seatbelt correctly crosses the shoulder and not above, some cars have adjustable seatbelt positions so you may be able to lower them so the seatbelt doesn’t cross the child’s head or neck.
The laws regarding child safety in a car also relate to when a child should wear a seatbelt. Children should always be restrained via a correct child restraint wherever possible. In some cases where a child restraint cannot be used (such as a taxi) then children should use an adult belt instead.
Laws are in place for our own safety, and when driving in a car there are many laws for our own protection. Child safety is something that is strongly enforced with fines and the very real possibility of serious injury, protect your children with proper car seats right for their age and they will be as safe as possible.
Make sure you purchase the right child booster seats and baby carriers by going online and learning the proper and safe way to fit them. You can also buy a wide range of travel systems for young children making sure you can travel safely and conveniently.
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