Parents putting kids at risk with ill-fitting car seats
If you’ve got little ones, you’ll know just how many things you need to remember when heading out with them in the car, from travel games to drinks bottles.
One thing you might not think too much about is your child’s car seat. But new research has found thousands of UK parents could be putting their kids at risk by using ill-fitting car seats.
And even more worryingly is the stat that up to a third of parents admit to breaking the law when driving someone else’s children by not using a car seat at all.
Risk of serious injury
Commissioned by SEAT, the study of 1,000 parents of children aged 12 or under reveals just how many UK children are being put at risk by not being properly secured.
One in 10 have allowed four children to sit along the backseat, while one in five allow their child to simply sit on a cushion instead of using a proper child seat.
The survey also found almost half of parents are unaware that a child could be put at risk from using an adult’s seat belt, which could cause them serious injury in the event of a crash.
Under current UK law, all children aged up to 12 years old or 135cm tall are required to use a child seat when travelling in a car, although there are a few exemptions to this rule.
As well as putting their children at risk, motorists face a fine of up to £500 and three penalty points in their caught by police officers using an incorrect child restraint.
Follow basic rules
SEAT’s Javier Luzon says research shows the difference between correct and incorrect child seat use can reduce a child’s risk of casualty by 75% and injury by 90%.
He said: “The survey by OnePoll revealed 40 per cent of parents are worried they have not fitted a child seat correctly. All they need to do is follow some basic rules.
“It is crucial to use the seat which is certified for the child’s height and weight, as the design of each one meets the specific requirements to protect children’s bodies.
“Children should always travel in the rear seats. This is by far the safest place to travel.”
How to fit your child’s car seat?
Fitting your child’s car seat isn’t a simple business, mistakes are common and easy to make.
That’s why Good Egg Safety are doing everything they can to help raise the importance of having the right car seat for your child.
Want to make sure your child’s car seats are keeping your children safe? Why not pop along to one of Good Egg Safety’s car seat checking events? They’re completely free and will give you peace of mind that your mini-me’s are nice and safe on the road in their car seats.
For more information on the laws surrounding child car seats, check out our guide to everything you need to know on the 1ST Central hub.
