Child restraints in cars

4 months ago 11th Jul 16:12

Your child may travel unrestrained in the rear if seat belts aren't fitted.

Ages 12 and 13, or taller than 1.35m (4ft 5in) An adult seat belt must be warn, in a front or back seat, when available. It's your responsibility as the driver to ensure a child is correctly secured.

Ages 14 and over in this age group are considered adult passengers and so they're responsible for their own safety. They must wear an adult seat belt, in a front or back seat, where available.

'Child restraints' is an umbrella term covering baby seats, child seats, booster seats and booster cushions

'Child restraints' is an umbrella term covering baby seats, child seats, booster seats and booster cushions.

Each restraint is designed for a specific weight range. When choosing one, look for a label showing 'E' and '44.03' or '.03', and the group number - or weight range - of the child for which it's designed.

The groups are approximately defined below, although some manufacturers adopt alternative descriptive names for their products, which can occasionally cover overlapping weight ranges, and which do offer wider choice.

What 's important is that the restraint is appropriate for your child's weight. The age groups are provided as guidelines only.

Note you should never use baby seats (groups 0 and 0+) in a seat fitted with an active front airbag, and you should only use restraints in seats with airbags in other groups if your car manufacturer confirms it's safe - check your vehicle handbook.

There's a wide range of products and prices, and most major retailers will have assistants trained in child restraints and the laws governing their use.

Although most models of restraint will fit into most models of car, it's advisable to try before you buy, and to ensure your choice works well for your child.

Restraints can be a major expense for parents, but beware of buying second-hand products that may not conform to the regulation 44.03 standard.

If your child's going to travel in someone else's vehicle, always check it has suitable child restraints and seat belts.

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