In September 2006, the laws governing the installation and use of child car seats changed for the first time since the early nineteen nineties. We think they changed for the better. But irrespective of what any of us think, there’s no room for argument. The new regulations are binding. Failure to comply with any aspect of the Child Car Seat Regulations will result in a fixed penalty notice; it could even result in a court hearing (and consequently, a much larger fine).
In brief, the Child Car Seat Regulations apply to all children under the age of 12, or below the height of 4ft 5 in (135 cm). Please bear in mind that as a parent, grandparent or guardian, you might have to prove this either way; don’t be offended if you are stopped and questioned. (As a rough guide, children of average height reach the magic 4ft 5 in around the age of nine.)
That means that children in the 4-12 age bracket (assuming they haven’t reached the requisite height) must (without exception) use an appropriate child restraint, when travelling in the front seat. Child restraints are also required for children travelling in the back seat. However where the appropriate restraints are not available, an adult seatbelt must be used instead. ‘Unexpected necessities’ do afford some leeway (e.g. giving another family’s child a lift home) but should not be seen as a get out clause.
So what is a ‘child restraint’ anyway? You can find out all you need to know here. Suffice to say it’s simply the umbrella term for baby seats, child seats; booster seats and booster cushions, all of which are designed to offer the same quality of crash protection to minors as three point seatbelts afford adults.
Okay, all well and good; but how do you persuade your children (many of who have already got too used to travelling unfettered) that seat belts and booster cushions are a good thing? As the driver, it’s your responsibility. Clearly, the Police aren’t going to be handing out on the spot fines to minors. But as a parent it’s simply your duty to your children. It won’t be the first time you’ve had to impose an “unfair” sanction on your kids! And it’s not going to be the last! Don’t worry: you’ve got schools to help you and the whole weight of the media behind you too. And if that doesn’t help, the police presence will. It might take some getting used to, but your kids will adjust pretty quickly.
What about your younger children? Barring a single exceptions (for short distance taxi travel) children up to the age of three must be carried in an appropriate car seat, whether they’re travelling in the front or back of the car. We can break that down further. Up to the age of twelve months (or the weight of 13kg), babies must be carried in a rear facing baby seat. Between the ages of 9 months and 4 years (that’s about 9-18kg) forward facing baby seats must be used.
To sum it all up in a couple of sentences: if your child is under 135 cm in height you may not drive him or her anywhere unless he/she is protected by the appropriate child restraint. And remember, a child may only ever travel in the front seat of a car if he/she is using the appropriate child seat or booster.
If you’re in any doubt about the regulations contact the UK Department for Transport, the Police or indeed, any of the fine stockists advertising on these pages; they’ll be glad to help.
© Car Safety Seats.org.uk 2008
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