TOP SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVING ON LONG TRIPS WITH CHILDREN

Some of the most common safety issues involve not using the car seat correctly and not fitting it securely. It's important to make sure to use an appropriate car seat or seat belt for the child's age, height, and weight, while also ensuring it is properly installed and compatible with the vehicle - parents could be hit with a fine of up to £500 and points on their licence if the requirements aren't up to scratch.

Before heading on a road trip it's also crucial to make the call on whether or not drivers are too tired - driving in a tired state can hamper drivers' abilities to concentrate, react and navigate the roads. If too tired, drivers need to seek out alternative transport, invite other drivers or delay the trip.

Other common issues include leaving loose items in the car, multitasking behind the wheel and forgetting to turn on the child lock.

Here are top safety tips when driving with children:



1. Car seat double check

The Highway Code states that children need to be in car seats until they reach the age of 12 or are at least 135 centimetres tall. For babies younger than 15 months, it's essential to place them in a rear-facing car seat, as this is the safest position for them. It's important to carefully follow the manufacturer's manual for installation or seek professional assistance, and carry out regular checks to make sure the seat is not loose.



2. Driving when tired

Fatigue significantly slows reaction times and impairs judgement, which makes it very dangerous to get behind the wheel if you haven't had enough rest. It's a difficult but important decision to make if you're too tired to drive - opting instead for public transport or inviting other drivers on the trip.



3. Loose items

Whether it's toys, water bottles, tablets or phones, loose items should be secured in the car to prevent serious injuries in the event of a sudden stop or collision - loose items can increase their weight by up to forty times at just 30mph. M...