New rules for children from 1 October: children to the back seat

One of the things we never tire of saying is that safety is the most important thing. And not only our own, since we are grown-ups and know what we have to do, but also that of those who cannot or are not aware of what they should do. Children are the most vulnerable passengers and therefore it is our responsibility to ensure they travel safely. From 1 October a new regulation comes into force that focuses more closely on them and strengthens the safety of our youngest passengers.

The most important prohibition is carrying children in the front seats if they measure less than 1.35 metres. Children below this height must, without exception, sit in the rear seats. Moreover, they must be protected by approved safety devices. The approved child seats must be used on urban and interurban roads alike.

This point is important because, on short journeys, for example moving from one street to another within a city, children were often allowed to sit in the front, wearing a seat belt. Tolerance was greater and it was overlooked. From 1 October this will no longer be permitted. Failure to comply with this requirement carries a fine of €200 and the loss of 3 points from the driving licence. In addition, the officer may immobilise the vehicle until the necessary measures are taken to drive correctly.

However, as with any rule, there are exceptions to this requirement, provided they are properly documented. If there are no rear seats, it is obviously impossible to comply with the regulation. When the rear seats are fully occupied by minors under the required height of 135 cm, the child may, exceptionally, travel in the front seat, but with the necessary measures in place to guarantee their safety.

A child seat may not be placed in the front, so it must go in the rear seats. The exception is if there are no anchorage points for child seats in the rear, something that at present seems almost impossible, as these seats can use the seat belts to fit and secure them.

As regards the use of seat belts, some exceptions also apply. For example, a driver may travel without one while reversing. It may also be removed for medical reasons, although the grounds must be proven. If a fine is issued, a medical certificate confirming the reason must be presented at the relevant office to have the fine cancelled. Additionally, certain professions are exempt from wearing a seat belt.

So drivers should take care from now on, because enforcement of the safety of our youngest passengers is set to increase.

Source | DGT