A campaign has started to remind drivers of major changes in seat belt laws.

From next Monday, all children under 135 centimetres tall or under the age of 12 will - by law - have to use an appropriate child restraint when travelling in cars.

In response, Bradford Council's road safety officers are going into the district's schools to teach children about the importance of belting up.

They will show children the difference a seat belt makes using soft toy characters called the Dim family.

A specially-created road safety book for children - Teddy Takes a Tumble - will be given to every year one pupil in the district to help drive the message home about the change in the law.

Last year 32 children were killed or seriously injured on the district's roads.

An average of 190 children are injured as car passengers in Bradford each year.

Councillor Anne Hawkesworth said: "It is important that every parent is aware of the changes in law and makes sure their children are properly restrained in vehicles.

"These workshops provide a fun way to teach children the importance of wearing a seat belt or other restraint in cars and includes information for parents as well."

Sunwin Motors in Bradford has backed the Telegraph & Argus Be Safe Not Sorry campaign by helping its customers understand the law changes.

General Manager Ian Wilkinson said: "It's the driver of the car carrying the child who is responsible, so parents, grandparents, childminders and so on need to make sure they are measuring up, particularly as the school runs get under way."

He said the restraint had to be fitted according to manufacturer's instructions.

Sunwin Motor staff in Thornton Road will be giving customers demonstrations on how to fit the booster cushions and child seats in the run up to the change.

"We have a selection of seats available and customers can call in and get advice from our team."

e-mail: jennifer.sugden@bradford.newsquest.co.uk

CHANGES IN THE LAW

Previously, a child restraint had to be used by children up to the age of 11 or under 150 centimetres only if it was available in the vehicle. From September 18 a restraint must be used for children up to 135 centimetres or 12-years-old.

A correct child restraint must also be used at all times if the child is in the front seat.

Rearward facing restraints must not be used in a front seat protected by an air bag.

Exceptions to the law are:

  • When the child is a passenger in a taxi.
  • When there are already two restraints occupied on the back seat of a car preventing a third being used.
  • A child is travelling a short distance for reason of unexpected necessity.
  • Seat belts are not available.
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