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New car seat laws take effect


A new law came into force recently requiring older children to use a child car or booster seat.

All children under 135cm (4ft 5in) tall must use a car seat that is appropriate for their weight - unless they have passed their 12th birthday.

Drivers who ignore the ruling will face fines ranging from £30 on-the-spot to £500 if the case goes to court.

The laws have been introduced following government research that showed 75 per cent of children could be harmed by wearing adult seat belts. Studies showed that seatbelts could hurt a younger child’s neck or internal organs if the car stops suddenly. Or they could slide underneath it.

To find out what kind of seat is appropriate for your child you should weigh your child, ask a trained shop assistant, or visit the following website www.childcarseats.org.uk.

You can also test your knowledge of the new laws at http://news.bbc.co.uk

The most precious cargo you will ever carry

According to the RoSPA Website

Seatbelts

It is the law to wear seatbelts in the front and rear of the car. Children aged over 14 and adult passengers are responsible for wearing seatbelts themselves.

Pregnant Women

Pregnant women MUST wear a seatbelt in the car (unless exempt for medical reasons). Place the shoulder strap between the breasts. Make sure the lap part of the belt is positioned under the baby, across the thighs.

Child Car Seats

All children MUST wear an appropriate child restraint suitable for their weight and height. An infant carrier or child car seat should never be used on a passenger seat with an airbag fitted. A 'switched-off' airbag can inflate in a crash.

Booster Seats / Cushions

The lap belt should go over the pelvic region, not the stomach. The diagonal strap should rest over the shoulder, not the neck. The belt should be worn as tight as possible.

For further information go to the RoSPA website at www.childcarseats.org.uk