Information Bulletin
18 September 2006
Erin and Alex are in safe seats
Picture taken of Erin Jamieson (1½ years old) in her child seat and Alex Jamieson (3½ years old) in his Booster seat. Picture taken by Elaine Skinley.
Most parents and carers will be aware that the laws about child car seats changed on 18th September. However, there is still a lot of confusion over how the law applies and how it will be enforced.
Chief Inspector Malcolm Bell at the Lerwick Police station has advised us that
“The approach of the Police service in Scotland will be of common sense. Any blatant breaches will be dealt with and other instances will be dealt with by way of advice given to drivers. The Police service in Scotland does not plan an initial period of heavy enforcement of the legislation.”
Shetland Islands Council’s Road Safety Section can provide advice on how the law applies to you. Advice and leaflets can also be obtained from your local Police station.
The Government believes that 2000 child deaths or injuries per year will be prevented.
The new laws state that:
- Children under three must use a child restraint appropriate for their weight in all cars, vans and goods vehicles.
- Rear-facing baby seats must not be used in a seat protected by a frontal air-bag unless it has been deactivated
- Children under 135cms and under 12 years old must use an appropriate child car seat in a vehicle.
- Drivers are legally responsible for ensuring children under 14 are appropriately restrained in cars and goods vehicles. Those 14 years and above are legally responsible for themselves.
- There are three exceptions which allow children three years to 135cms to travel in the rear and use an adult belt and these are:
- in a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle if the appropriate child restraint is not available
- for an unexpected necessity over a short distance
- where two occupied child seats in the rear prevent the fitting of a third.
- The penalties for non-compliance are a £30 fixed penalty notice. If a case goes to court the maximum fine is £500.
Please ensure that your child is using the correct car seat for their weight or age. The safest way for children to travel in cars is in a child seat that is suitable for their weight and size.
Even in a minor crash, an unrestrained child would be thrown about inside the vehicle, injuring themselves and others and they could be thrown from the car through one of the windows
Leaflets and posters have been distributed to local shops, schools, nurseries, playgroups, SIC offices, library, childminders, Health Centres and Leisure centres. Please pick up a copy and take time to ensure your child’s seat meets these requirements.
If you would like more information or advice please contact the Council’s Road Safety Section and they will be able to advise you accordingly.
Road Safety Section, Shetland Islands Council, Legal & Administration, 4 Market Street, Lerwick.
Tel: 01595 744560
email: road.safety@sic.shetland.gov.uk
Ends.
Press release compiled by Road Safety Officer, Elaine Skinley, 744560, Email: elaine.skinley@sic.shetland.gov.uk