child seats
and in-car
vehicle safety
GE
Capital Solutions
inside we cover...
The law
Child seat safety tips
Head restraints and how to minimise the risks
The facts
Here is a quick guideline of the law concerning in car seating and safety
The Law
• You must wear a seatbelt in cars and goods vehicles,
where one is fitted.
• The Driver is liable to prosecution if a child under 14
does not wear a seat belt or a child head restraint.
• Children up to 135cms in height must use the
appropriate child restraint when travelling in any car, van
or goods vehicle.
• A child may use an adult belt when they reach 135cm
or the age of 12.
• In buses or coaches with belts fitted, passengers’ aged
14+ must use them.
Child Seat Safety Tips
• Look for a label with an ‘E’ mark and an approval
number starting with ‘03’. Only very old restraints will
have a BS ‘Kitemark’. These cannot be used after May 2008.
• Before buying a child restraint, try it in your car to
check it fits properly. Ask for a demonstration.
• Beware of old or second hand restraints, which may be
damaged or worn out.
• Take time to check that the seat you are buying is
the right one for your child and that you follow the fitting
instructions properly.
Wearing a seatbelt
Saves Lives
- so belt up!
Front Seat
Rear Seat
Who is responsible
Driver
Seat belt must be worn if fitted
Child under 3 years of age
Correct child restraint must be
used
Correct child restraint must be
used. If one is not available in a
taxi, may travel unrestrained
Driver
Child from 3rd birthday up
to 135cms in height (approx
4’5”)(12th birthday, whichever they
reach first)
Correct child restraint must be
used
Correct child restraint must be
used where seat belts fitted. Must
use adult belt in rear seat if correct
child restraint not available:
• In a taxi; or
• For a short distance in an
unexpected necessity; or
• If two occupied child restraints
prevent fitting of a third
Driver
Child 12 or 13 or over 135cms
(approx 4ft 5ins) in h