Car Seat Safety

Using the right car seat can save a child’s life in the event of an accident.

That’s why it’s important we have all the best practices in place to make sure our children not only feel comfortable, but they’re as safe as possible on their journeys out in the car!

There are lots of important factors to consider when choosing a car seat for your little one. It can be tricky knowing where to start, especially for new parents.

You might have plenty of questions when it comes to rules, regulations and what to look for when choosing the right seat – so we’ve included a few important points to help you along the way!

What are the age regulations?

The law in the UK states that all children must use a car seat until they’re 12 years old, or until they reach 135cm tall. 

Which type of seat?

There are 2 main types of child car seats –

• R129 are height-based and are also known as ‘I-size’ seats. These are tested for side, front and back impact. They are used rear-facing until at least 15 months old.

• R44 are weight-based seats and are safety tested for front and back impact. They allow for a child to face forward from 9 kg (around 9 months).

Which is better - rear or front facing?

Rear-facing car seats are considered the safest in the unfortunate event of an accident. The seat will better protect delicate necks and spines in a front-on crash, and support little heads better. If you opt for an i-size seat, your child must be rear-facing until 15 months.

Which is the best seat for my toddler?

When your baby has outgrown their seat, it’s time to move on to something bigger with a built-in harness or shield. With so many options, it can be confusing when trying to pick the best fit for your little one and your car. Reputable high street suppliers such as Halfords can guide you in the right direction.

Can I buy a second-hand seat?

Going for a second-hand seat might seem like a good money-saving option, but it’s not recommended. Without knowing its history, you can’t rule out any hidden damage from previous accidents.

To find out more about the guidelines on child car seat safety visit the gov.uk site