Driving with children can be more dangerous, and parents and carers have been given a fresh warning about the risks - and the fines - for simple driving errors.
The Highway Code says: "The driver MUST ensure that all children under 14 years of age in cars, vans and other goods vehicles wear seat belts or sit in an approved child restraint where required.
"If a child is under 1.35 metres (approx 4 feet 5 inches) tall, a baby seat, child seat, booster seat or booster cushion MUST be used suitable for the child’s weight and fitted to the manufacturer’s instructions."
It adds that drivers who are carrying children in cars, vans and other goods vehicles should ensure that children should:
- get into the vehicle through the door nearest the kerb child restraints are properly fitted to manufacturer’s instructions
- children do not sit behind the rear seats in an estate car or hatchback, unless a special child seat has been fitted
- the child safety door locks, where fitted, are used when children are in the vehicle
- children are kept under control
More than 11,000 fines have been handed out to UK motorists since 2022 for failing to make sure children are following car safety regulations, showing just how important it is to stay aware of the laws that matter most.
With the school term back in its swing, Neil Hutchinson from Essex car servicing company Mercury Car Centre warns parents about how common mistakes like forgetting to switch on child locks or driving while tired could put children at risk and in the most serious cases, lead to fines of up to £5,000 and even disqualification.
Child locks - £5,000 fine
“Not using child locks may seem like a small oversight, but if a child opens a door mid-drive, it could lead to careless driving charges," says Neil.
“Depending on the circumstances, this could mean points on your licence, a fine of up to £5,000, or even losing your licence altogether. Engaging the child lock is a simple step that helps keep children safe and avoids serious consequences.”
Driving while tired - £5,000 fine and 3 points
“Parenting can be exhausting, but driving when you’re over-fatigued is extremely dangerous and can be treated as careless driving," Neil explains.
"The penalties range from a £100 fine and three points to as much as a £5,000 fine, nine points, or even disqualification in the most serious cases. If you feel too tired to drive, it’s always best to rest before getting behind the wheel.”
Devices and distractions - £1,000 fine or a driving ban
“Handing a child a tablet or phone in the car is fine, but actions like adjusting their screen while driving carry the same risk as using a hand-held mobile," Neil says.
“The law applies even when you’re stopped at traffic lights or in traffic. Breaking it could mean six points on your licence and a £200 fine, and in court this could rise to a £1,000 fine or a driving ban.”
Car seat rules - £500
“Children must use a car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first. Using the correct car seat is not only a legal requirement but one of the most important ways to keep children safe on the road," Neil adds.
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“Babies should always travel in a rear-facing car seat, and while they can legally forward-face from 15 months, it is advised to keep them rear-facing for as long as possible for maximum protection. Failing to follow these rules could result in a fine of up to £500 and three points on your licence.”
Having the music too loud - £5,000 fine and 9 points
“Long car journeys with children often involve music and sing-alongs, but loud music can stop you from hearing potential hazards on the road," says Neil.
"The Highway Code makes it clear that distractions should be avoided, and if you are found to be driving without due care and attention, the penalties can be severe, up to a £5,000 fine, nine points, or a driving ban.”
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