Child seat belt legislation

A quick guide to the new changes in child seat belt legislation which took effect from 18th September 2006 is as follows:

The law applies to cars, vans and other goods vehicles.

Child under three years:

You must always use a child restraint appropriate for the child's age, height and weight whether the child is travelling in the front or rear of the vehicle. If an appropriate restraint is not available, it is illegal for a child to travel in the vehicle. The only exception is in a taxi if the correct child restraint is not available.

Child aged 3-11, but less than 135 cm in height:

You must use an appropriate child restraint for the child's age, height and weight in the front seat and, if seat belts are fitted, in the rear seat. The only exceptions to this are where the correct child restraint is not available in the following situations:

• In a taxi where the correct child restraint is not available
• For reason of unexpected necessity over a short distance
• Two occupied child restraints prevent a third from being fitted
• In these cases an adult seat belt must be used

Child over 135 cm, or 12 years and over:

An adult seat belt must be worn if fitted.

For any further information contact the Road Safety Team on 01234 228336.