Industry News from Yes Insurance

The much talked about child car seat laws come into force today with the promise of preventing up to 2,000 child deaths and injuries each year.

The rules state that a child under the age of 12 who also measures less than four foot, five inches (135 centimetres) must use a child restraint when travelling in a car, van or goods vehicle.

People who do not comply with the law will be punished with a £30 fixed penalty notice and, if the case goes to court, could be stung with a £500 fine.

Non-compliance could also affect car insurance claims and premiums but the Department for Transport (DfT) is keen to emphasise that the laws have been introduced in the interests of keeping children safe.

"I want children to be as safe as possible on our roads and I know that the vast majority of parents will do everything they can to make sure their children are adequately protected," said roads minister Stephen Ladyman.

"I urge all parents to check that they have the correct restraint for their child. The THINK! campaign website contains plenty of useful information and staff at our partner retailers can answer questions."

The DfT's THINK! campaign has been running since July in conjunction with retailers, including Halfords, Mothercare and Toys R Us.

The DfT says that parents visiting these stores will be given expert safety advice when it comes to child car seats.

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