Rules for Children travelling in cars in NSW???

Question

Does anyone know if there are rules regarding when children are allowed to sit in the front seat of a car in NSW? I know that kids in booster seats can't sit in the front if there is an airbag, but I've checked the RTA website and can't find anything specific...

Answer 1

As a rule of thumb any child who's seat belt does not cross the shoulder (but crosses the neck or head area partially) should not sit in the front seat! Why because the forces developed in a collision can cause servere damage to a child who is physically to small to fit into the seat and seat belt. On impact they may even be propelled through the belt and out of the seat position!

Commonsence and discretion should be used

For a child to fit the seat and seat belt they should be restrained by the belt when sitting in the seat (without a support other than the seat) and the lap strap should be over the hip/across the waist area, the sash part of the belt should then cross over the shoulder area with the belt going over the collar bone NOT THE NECK!

It is also dangerous for smaller children to sit in the front because of air bags and the risk of suffocation (when they release and impact the passenger, as they may hit a child in the face) an adult is usually impacted in the chest area more than the face.

It is not easy to find information on this issue but if you go to the NRMA they do have research relating to this, also the old fashioned Road Traffic Hand Book Regulations should have the relevant Laws concerning front seat passengers. You might want to start looking from the time front passenger air bags were made mandatory safety equipment in cars (under the ADR'S) Australian Design Rules then follow the Legislation Hope this is helpful Goodluck

Answer 2

The rule is that children less than 6 months of age need to be in a rear-facing capsule. 6-12 months need to be in a child restraint. Now, the law states that children more than 12 months can sit in ANY seat (except the front if there's an airbag). BUT the police will book you if you do that - SO DON'T!!

What you should go by is the child, depending mainly on height and weight. Generally if they're 1-6 years old they should be in a child restraint. If they're over 4 years old then they can sit in a booster seat. (Child restraint=restraints on seat. Booster seat=seat belt attaches to booster seat).

BUT, the rules are changing later this year and you should really call the RTA on 132213 and confirm with them.

Answer 3

Try this site it is very helpful...

http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/law/inde...