May 2007
MOTORHOMES, SEATBELTS AND THE LAW
The latest changes to the law on the use of seat belts, and particularly the use of various forms of child restraints, have resulted in a number of additional requirements for motorists. The new rules require that small children (up to 3 years old) must be restrained in a suitable child seat, and older children must use either a standard adult seat belt ( if the child is over the prescribed height limit of 1.35 metres or aged over 12) or a suitable restraint (car seat or booster seat). The rules make the driver responsible for the wearing of seatbelts or use of restraints for any passenger under 14 years of age.
Drivers of motorhomes face particular issues. Some may have side-facing seats, some rear-facing seats, and some may have rear seats that are not fitted with seat belts. Side-facing seats are a problem, as seat belts do not deal adequately with the forces generated in an accident. Other seats, whether front or rear-facing, provided they are fitted with belts, can be safely used with suitable child restraints. If none of the rear seats are fitted with seatbelts, then a child under 3 must use a front seat (with a suitable child restraint), ensuring that any front passenger airbag is disabled. Any rear seats not fitted with belts can be used by children over 3, but if belts are fitted, they must be used, together with any suitable restraint.
The rules are not particularly clear when it comes to vehicles other than private cars, but there is useful information on the subject at www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/campaigns/childcarseats/faq08.htm. This deals specifically with “unusual” vehicles, so is worth a look if you have any queries on this subject
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