Taking into consideration infants’ welfare in cars, Beijing has implemented a new law. Parents caught in a car without a car safety system for children under the age of 6 months will be fined. The fine is $423, a hefty amount for not securing the safety of a child. The law stipulates that regular seatbelts will not secure children under the age of one. Children under the age of one and infants are especially at more risk, deaths or serious injuries can happen.
Here is a quick breakdown of the penalty
| Offense | Fine | Additional Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Driving with infant under 6 months without car seat | $423 | Possible license penalty points |
| Improperly installed car seat | $250 | Warning or re-inspection requirement |
| Child not buckled correctly in car seat | $150 | Mandatory awareness class |
Reason why Child Safeguard Restraints are Important
It is a well-known fact that infants have soft and delicate bodies. They are especially prone to injuries of the neck, or bones in the event of a sudden stop or a crash. Children in a car without a proper safeguarding system are at a high risk of injuries. The baby car seats can absorb shocks. Rear-facing car seats are engineered to absorb shock and distribute impact force in a way a child can face grave injury or fatality. Despite the argument for years, this law is expected to be the strongest deterrent.
Penalties and Fines Explaining The Process
The fine of 423 dollars especially in a few states can also impact the driving license by adding points. They also come with other consequences. Law enforcement officers have said that there will be regular caravans of officers around schools, neighborhoods, and highways as a part of ‘operation no infant injuries in cars!’ Elders will be educated on the proper installation procedures of certified infant car seats.
More Information for Caregivers
Authorities appear to consider the attributing challenge enforcement but also awareness. Parents, in taking the said role, may forget the basic premise of a child’s safety. Road safety advocates say that the best practice is to have the car seat ready by the time the child is born, especially for the very first car ride home. Many hospitals and pediatric offices are working actively with the regional traffic authorities to enlighten parents.
Suggestions for Parents
Road safety practitioners have the strongest recommendations for parents who are traveling with infants as follows.
- Any infant under the age of two should be placed in a rear-facing car seat.
- The seat is to be installed at the proper angle so the baby doesn’t collapse under their own weight and is to be secured.
- Under most normal situations, be certain straps, buckles, and locks have all been secured.
- After any crash, be certain to change car seats, regardless of damage.
These parents will have the peace of mind that their child is traveling with the highest security and safety instead of worrying about their bank account.
FAQs
1. At what age can my baby stop using a rear-facing car seat?
The rear-facing car seat can be used from when the child is a baby until the age of two or until the highest weight or height increments are available from the manufacturer.
2. Is it alright to drive a short distance with my baby in my arms?
No, a baby in arms is an extremely unsafe position and unlawful in terms of the traffic regulations.
3. Whom can I contact if I do not have a car seat?
Several community programs, charities, and hospitals have infant car seats and offer them to low-income parents.
4. What if the person is not the parent? Is there still a fine?
No. Any other person who is the driver of the vehicle and is carrying an infant who is under six months in age and who is not secured in the vehicle can also be fined.
