It is now almost 5 years since the current “In Car Safety” legislation was introduced in the Isle of Man and the Department of Infrastructure is reminding motorists of the requirements and their responsibilities.

The law states that every child should travel in the appropriate child restraint until they reach either 135cm (4ft 5in) in height or 12 years of age.  Car seatbelts are designed  for people with an adult bone structure and do not effectively protect children when used alone. It is important that the seatbelt is used in conjunction with the correct child restraint and the car driver is legally responsible for ensuring that this is the case for any passengers in their vehicle under the age of 14.

Director of Highways, Richard Pearson said: ‘With the schools breaking up for Easter this week, it is important for parents and carers to understand the type of child seat required for each child travelling in their car. It is also important to ensure that your car is not overloaded, it is tempting to pick up friends and family but if you are doing this please ensure that you have the correct restraints available for each person. Car seat retailers can advise on which type of restraint you require and how it should be fitted – there really is no excuse!’

Inspector Terry Stephen of the Isle of Man Constabulary Road’s Policing Unit said: ‘There is no excuse for not securing your child appropriately or checking that your children are properly secured before you drive.  It is the driver’s legal and moral responsibility to ensure this is done before driving.  The Police wholeheartedly support this road safety initiative, it saves lives. The penalty for contravening the safety legislation is a £40 fixed penalty notice and if the case goes to court the maximum fine is £500, although the emotional consequences of having a collision with an unrestrained child in the car could be far higher.’

Full details of the legislation can be found on a downloadable leaflet on the government website: http://www.gov.im/transport/highways/roadsafety/campaigns/CarSafety.xml

Alternatively you can collect a leaflet from The Department of Infrastructure’s reception at the Sea Terminal or telephone the Road Safety Team on 686671 and they will post one to you.