New child seat laws come into force today

New rules which make it compulsory for more children to use car seats have come into force.

Child seats or booster seats will be compulsory for under 12s who are less than 135cm tall.



The legislation aims to reduce the 2,000 child casualties caused by road accidents every year. But many parents are unaware of the new requirements or simply don't understand them.

Youngsters travelling in cars, vans and other goods vehicles must use a child seat or booster until they reach the age of 12 or a height of 135cms (4' 5") - whichever comes first. This applies even if they have already spent several years in adult seats.