As parents, we're all too familiar with the challenges of driving with children in the car. Whether it's the constant "Are we there yet?" or the occasional bickering, it can be a test of patience. However, what many parents may not be aware of are the fines and driving laws associated with transporting children in vehicles. In this blog post, we'll delve into the important regulations and fines you need to know when driving with kids in the UK.
Seat Belt Regulations
In the UK, it's mandatory for all passengers, including children, to wear seat belts when the vehicle is in motion. Here's what you need to know:
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Children aged 12 and over: They must wear a seat belt in the front and back of the vehicle.
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Children aged 3 to 12, or up to 135cm tall: They must use an appropriate child restraint, such as a booster seat with a seat belt.
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Children under 3, or up to 135cm tall: They must use a suitable child car seat.
The fine for not complying with these seat belt regulations can be up to £500. More importantly, not using the appropriate child restraint or seat can put your child at significant risk in the event of an accident.
Using a Tablet To Play Children’s Shows
When it comes to trying to occupy a bunch of rowdy children in the back of your car on a long drive, it can seem almost impossible to calm them down once chaos ensues.Particularly on long journeys, it's not unusual for parents to give their children a tablet, phone, or similar device to watch during their journey.
Whether they are watching their favourite episode of Peppa Pig or a Superhero Marvel movie, this could land you in some trouble.
If the driver so much as turns to adjust the screen or help the child, it's comparable to using a handheld mobile device that impedes proper control of the vehicle. Whether you are on the move, stopped at traffic lights, or queuing in traffic the law still applies.
Drivers found to be breaking this can face a whopping 6 points on their licence and a £200 fine.
Child Locks and Windows
It's essential to ensure child safety locks are activated on car doors to prevent children from opening them while the vehicle is in motion. Also, never allow children to stick their heads or arms out of windows. If your child's actions are deemed to have distracted you from driving safely, you could face fines and penalty points on your license.
If a door was to open mid-drive caused by some little fingers fiddling with the car door latch, it could cause careless and reckless driving, resulting in a fine of up to £5,000 and the loss of your licence in a more serious event.
Ensuring your car is suitably child-locked will make sure those little fingers can fiddle with handles all they wish without the risk of opening a door.