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PARENTS ARE BEING ADVISED ABOUT THE RULES AROUND CHILD CAR SEATS, THE RISK OF FINES AND THE SAFEST WAY TO FIT ONE IN YOUR VEHICLE 11:36, 28 May 2025 With the school half-term break under
way, many families may be making long car journeys this week. Now experts have issued some timely advice over car seat laws and the fines parents risk. They point out that while the use of
these seats is well established, knowing exactly where to place them in the car is less understood. And getting it wrong could result in a fine of up to £500. Car repair finance experts at
Bumper are urging drivers to brush up on the rules to ensure they’re not only protecting their children but also their wallets. A spokesperson said: "Choosing the right child seat is
just part of the equation. Positioning that seat correctly inside your vehicle is absolutely critical for safety — and failure to comply can lead to legal penalties." In the UK,
children must use a child car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135cm tall — whichever comes first. Beyond that point, they must wear a seatbelt. But many parents are unaware that where
they install the seat also matters. Bumper’s expert said: "The safest place for a child seat is typically the rear middle seat using an ISOFIX connection or seatbelt. This position is
furthest from the doors and offers the most protection in the event of a side collision." ISOFIX, a standardised child seat fitting system, is mandatory in all new cars manufactured in
the UK since 2013 and helps ensure secure and consistent installation. For infants and toddlers, rear-facing seats provide the highest level of protection and should be used for as long as
the manufacturer allows — usually up to around 15 months of age. "Rear-facing seats help shield a baby’s head, neck and spine in the event of an impact," Bumper explained.
"The seat should also be installed at the correct angle to prevent the baby’s head from falling forward." Once a child outgrows a rear-facing seat, they can transition to a
forward-facing seat with a harness — but only in the rear seats. "Even as children grow, the back seat is always the safest place. Booster seats should be used until the seatbelt fits
them properly — with the shoulder strap across the chest and the lap belt across the thighs, never the stomach," they added. IF THE MIDDLE SEAT ISN’T SUITABLE Not all vehicles are
equipped for child seats in the centre, particularly if there’s no seatbelt or ISOFIX point. "Always check your car’s manual — if the middle seat isn’t compatible, the next best option
is one of the rear side seats," said Bumper. "What matters most is proper installation. Many seats have visual indicators to confirm when they’re fitted securely." CAR SEAT
FINES The consequences of not following car seat safety rules can be serious. Parents found to be in breach of child seat regulations can face fines of up to £500. Article continues below
"Beyond the financial penalty, failing to secure a child properly in the car puts their life at risk," Bumper warned. "Investing a few minutes to check your setup could be the
difference between safety and tragedy."