Do you want to adhere to the car seat laws while driving in Italy?
In Italy, car seat laws require children under 150 cm in height or less than 36kg (79lb) to use a car seat appropriate for their weight and height. The car seat must be approved according to European safety standards (ECE R44/04 or R129 which ensure extra head support) or you will be fined 80 to 323 Euros and 5 penalty points.
Well, car seat laws are complex, especially when carrying children. If you consider traveling overseas with children, it may be even more complicated to understand what to do while driving. It is important to check the latest updates to the law here and here.
The present laws in Italy suggest that kids journeying in a car should use the right car seat belts, which depend on their weight in Kilogram (KG) as well as height.
Should you bring your car seat to Italy?
If you plan to drive and your kid falls within the 150cm or 36kg requirements, bringing your own car seat is recommended. This is because you may not be able to find a suitable car seat for your child's weight and height, or the car rental agency may not provide one.
Additionally, using your own car seat ensures that it is the right size and fit for your child, which can enhance their safety while traveling in a car.
When traveling with a car seat, be sure to check with your airline regarding their policies and fees for bringing a car seat on the flight. It is also important to properly secure the car seat in the car, following the manufacturer's instructions and local laws.
It is important to note that not following car seat laws in Italy can result in fines and points on your driver's license. It is also crucial for the safety of children to use appropriate car seats while driving.
If you plan to rent a car in Italy, it's important to do your research and be prepared. From understanding the traffic laws to knowing which type of vehicle to rent, there are several factors to consider. In this article, we will guide you through the process of renting a car in Italy, so you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
What are some of the car seat laws in Italy then?
The following are approved car seat laws in Italy, therefore make sure you adhere to them as you travel with kids in a car. They include:
- Rear/forward-facing age
To begin with, you need to have your child facing a specific direction until they attain a given age with the right body mass. At first, you need to have them sit facing the backside. However, as soon as they grow older, forward-facing can be implemented to them.
| Name of Seat/ Group | Type | Weight |
| Group 0 | Rear-facing | Up to 10kg |
| Group 0+ | Rear-facing | Up to 13Kg |
| Group 1 | Rear or Front-facing | 9 to 18 Kg |
| Group 2 | Front-facing | 15 to 25 Kg |
| Group 3 | Front-facing | 22 to 36 Kg |
Rear-facing Law - Kids below 15kg (33lbs) should travel rear-facing in the back seat of the car in a standard rear-facing kids' car seat.
Forward-facing Law - Kids over 2 years old with a minimum of 15kg (33lbs) may travel forward-facing in the backside seat of the car with a standard forward-facing kids' car seat.
- Weight/Age
Your child needs to be in a car seat until a particular age as well as kilos. Also, they should be in the appropriate type of car seat with recommended age as well as weight.
- Type of car seat
There exist three different types of car seats: baby, changeable as well as a booster. Make kids be in the correct type of seat. It depends on age, kg, and the condition of the kid.
Are there some exemptions to the car seat laws?
The car seat laws in Italy permit some exemptions whenever driving kids. The exceptions include;
- In case no backside seat is available (e.g. occupied by other children)
- If backside seats are back or even side-facing.
- In case the restraining device is not possible in the backside seat.
- In case the kid has an ailment that requires them to sit in the front seat.
- In case any other passenger seats in the car are filled by a kid under the age of twelve.
Based on the law requirements of sitting in the front seat, the passenger airbags have to be deactivated.
So, how can we protect our kids during car traveling?
Accident-associated problems in kids during car travel reduce by 33% whenever children sit in the backside seat of a car instead of the front. Regardless of the location, you should have your child in the backside seats of the vehicle if possible.
While Italy does not have laws for car seats in taxis, you should secure your child whenever traveling by car.
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