New Seatbelt Laws - child seats
From Monday 18 September 2006, drivers must make sure that children up to 135cm (4’5”) tall use the correct category or group (Group 0, group 1 etc) of child car seats or boosters in cars, vans and goods vehicles. There are very few exceptions to these rules.
Drivers risk being fined if they don’t comply with the new laws.
What the changes mean:
- All children under three years old must use the correct child seat when travelling in any car or goods vehicle (except in the rear of a taxi or private hire car if a child seat is not available)
- Children aged three or over must use the correct child seat, booster seat or booster cushion when travelling in cars or goods vehicles until they reach they age of 12 years or 4’5” (135cms) in height, whichever comes first.
- Children taller than 4’5” (135cm) and all those aged 12 years and over need to use adult belts.
- Rear-facing baby seats must not be used in seats with an active front airbag.
- There are some specific practical exemptions - for taxis, emergency vehicles, and, for children aged three and over only, unexpected journeys over a short distance.
- In mini-buses, buses and coaches, seated passengers aged 14 years and above must use seat belts where they are fitted.
- The penalties for not using a seat belt or suitable child restraint remain at a £30 Non-endorsable conditional offer or a maximum fine of £500 following conviction in a court of law.
Members of the public requiring further information can refer to the Public Enquiries Hotline on 020 7944 8300 or the Department for Transport THINK Website:
www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/campaigns/childcarseats/childcarseats.htm