Is your child tall enough?

Date published: 08/09/2006

From Monday 18 September 2006, new legislation will make it compulsory for every child to travel in the appropriate child restraint until that child reaches either 135cm in height or 12 years old. The Department for Transport estimates that these changes could prevent over 2,000 child deaths or serious injuries every year.

Most parents, carers and guardians make sure that children use some kind of restraint when travelling on the road, but it is important to use the right one; and not to use an adult belt before the child is big enough. Baby seats and child seats are designed to provide the protection needed for children, as seat belts are designed for adults.

Therefore, it is important to ensure that the correct car seat is being used when the new law comes into force.

Stuart Howarth, Rochdale Council Road Safety Officer is urging parents, carers and guardians to ensure they have the correct seats for their children.

The penalties for not using the correct child restraint is a £30 fixed penalty notice or up to £500 if the case goes to court.

The changes mean that:

• All children under 3 years old must use the correct child seat when travelling in a car or goods vehicle (except in the rear of a taxi if a child seat is not available).
• Children aged 3 years old must use the correct child seat/booster seat/ booster cushion when travelling in a car or goods vehicle until they reach 135cms (4' 5'')
• Taller children and all those aged 12 and over need to use adult seat belts.
• Rear facing baby seats must not be used on front seats where there is an active airbag.

Further information on the new child restraint laws can be found at:

www.seatbelts.co.uk     www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk      www.rospa.co.uk