Blog Posts

Ensuring Child Safety on the Road: A Guide to Choosing the Right Car Seat

September 19, 2024

One of the most important responsibilities of a parent is ensuring the safety of your child, especially when travelling by car. With the vast array of car seat options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. However, making an informed decision about the type of car seat best suited for your child's age, height, and weight is crucial for their safety.

According to the Road Safety Thematic Report, only 20% to 50% of children are correctly restrained in their car seats, and 15% to 30% are in an inappropriate system. This highlights the need for parents to be well-informed about the types of car seats available and their associated regulations.

One important consideration when choosing a car seat is the i-Size option, which is regulated by current car seat regulations R129. These seats are approved based on the height of the child rather than the weight, offering the correct protection for the child. Additionally, i-Size seats can only be installed with an ISOFIX system, reducing the risk of incorrect installation and also provide better side protection.

• Cybex, Modular Base G Isofix-HIDDEN INCLUSIONS-Bundle Inclusion-523001172-Bygge Bo

It's also essential to consider the age and height recommendations for car seats. For instance, children up to 15 months of age and 76cm are required to be installed rearward, which offers optimal protection for young babies. The legal compulsory minimum age and height to front face are 15 months and 76cm, emphasizing the importance of following these guidelines for child safety.

Rear-facing car seats are recommended for more extended use, as they provide higher safety in the event of a crash. Models such as the Cybex Sirona Gi and Sirona T and Sirona G offer significant safety benefits compared to forward-facing seats and can be used up to 105cm.

Cybex, Sirona T i-Size Car Seat, Cozy Beige Plus-Car Seats-Cybex-Cozy Beige Plus-Bygge Bo

For children under 100cm, it's crucial to secure them in a car seat with an integrated harness or impact shield to ensure their safety. Car seats such as the Cybex Pallas G and Cybex Pallas B2 and Anoris T2 offer features like integrated impact shields and airbag technology, significantly reducing the risk of neck injuries while front-facing and providing a safer alternative to conventional seats with a harness system.

Cybex, Anoris T i-Size Car Seat-Car Seats-Cybex-Nautical Blue-Bygge Bo

Furthermore, children between 110 and 130cm in height have a relatively high risk of being incorrectly restrained, as parents often feel that the child is 'big enough' to use the rear passenger seat belt. This misconception highlights the need for continued education and awareness about car seat safety. In this instance, the option for a highback booster, with side impact protection, an adjustable headrest and Isofix connectors, is a safe option that will also grow as your child grows and can be used right up to 150cm. Cybex Solution T, Solution G and Solution S offer lots of great features.

When choosing a car seat, considering reputable brands like Cybex, which consistently meet the highest safety standards and continue to innovate for safety without compromise, can provide peace of mind for parents. With features such as side impact protection and Isofix installation indicators, Cybex car seats prioritise safety and offer a range of longer-lasting rear-facing options. All Cybex car seats are also independently tested by ADAC, read more here.

In conclusion, using the correct i-Size seat based on your child's height and following the manufacturer's installation and user guide is vital to keeping your child safe on the road. Seeking assistance from trained professionals when selecting the right seat for your child can help alleviate confusion and ensure that you are making the best choice for your child's safety.

Remember, ensuring your child's safety on the road goes beyond just using a car seat – it's about choosing the right seat and using it correctly. By prioritising safety and staying informed about the latest regulations and innovations in car seat technology, you can provide your child with the best possible protection while travelling.

BOOK YOUR CAR SEAT SHOPPING APPOINTMENT TODAY.

UPPAbaby Vista V2 vs Vista V3: Which Is Right for You?

October 1, 2024