"I didn’t know it was illegal": Half of UK parents admit confusion over child car seat laws
New research reveals worrying gaps in parents’ understanding of car seat safety, with many not realising rear-facing seats are legally required for under-15-months
If you’ve ever found child car seat laws confusing, you’re not alone — according to new research from Halfords, half of UK parents say they’re unclear on the rules, with many admitting their child doesn’t always travel in a car seat.
Even more concerning, the study found that nearly 1 in 5 parents with infants under 15 months are unknowingly breaking the law by placing their baby in a forward-facing seat — something that’s illegal under current UK regulations.
The survey of over 1,000 UK parents with children aged 12 or under also found that only 28% knew the basic legal requirement: that children must use a car seat until they are either 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first.
What the law actually says
By law, all children must travel in an appropriate car seat until their 12th birthday or until they reach 135cm in height. For babies under 15 months, that seat must be rear-facing.
But the research reveals many parents are unaware of these details. In fact:
75% didn’t know it’s illegal for an infant to travel forward-facing
80% didn’t know that not using a child seat at all is also illegal
As a result, 16% of parents admitted their baby usually travels in a forward-facing seat, and another 16% said their baby’s car seat is fitted in the front — which isn’t illegal, but strongly advised against.
Perhaps most worryingly, 3% of parents surveyed said their baby usually travels without a car seat altogether, often being held in someone’s arms.
Parents want to do the right thing, but don't know how
Many parents start out with good intentions. But as children grow, so do the complexities around car seat rules.
“A quarter of parents say they held their baby in their arms on the way home from hospital,” the Halfords report states — a huge safety risk. And over 40% of parents with children under 12 say their child doesn’t always use a car seat.
Reasons given include:
Not replacing outgrown seats (32%)
Thinking it’s OK on a parent’s lap (26%)
Assuming it’s not necessary (25%)
Not practical for short trips or taxis (22%)
The rules are even more confusing when abroad
Holidays add another layer of confusion, with a quarter of parents saying they’re less likely to use a car seat while travelling abroad.
The main reasons? Parents cite lower availability of seats (38%), difficulty bringing their own (33%), and not knowing the local laws (24%).
Alarmingly, 22% of parents admitted to holding their child in their arms during transfers or taxis abroad – something they’d never do at home.
This is despite the fact that most airlines allow you to check in a car seat for free – a benefit many parents aren’t aware of.
Halfords wants to help make car seat safety simpler
In response to the findings, Halfords is offering free in-store car seat fitting demonstrations to help take the guesswork out of what can feel like a minefield of rules.
“Car seats are vital for child safety in the event of a crash. Seat belts alone do not offer suitable protection for children,” said Halfords CEO Henry Birch.
“This isn’t about catching parents out – we know the vast majority want to do the right thing, but they’re overwhelmed by confusing laws and mixed messages. Our job at Halfords is to make car seat safety simple, not scary – so parents feel confident every step of the way, not just at the newborn stage.
Alongside in-store demos from trained fitters, Halfords also offers a free online buyer’s guide to help parents understand everything from i-Size rules to choosing the right seat for their child’s age and size.
Where to get support on car seat safety
If you’re unsure whether your child’s car seat is legally compliant — or simply want reassurance you’re doing it right — here are some steps you can take:
- Check out the MadeForMums guide to car seat laws here
Book a free fitting demonstration at a Halfords store
Visit the Halfords car seat advice hub for guidance on UK laws and choosing the right fit
Check your car seat’s manual to make sure it’s installed correctly and suited to your child’s age and weight
Ask before you travel abroad – car seats can usually be checked in for free with your airline
Whether you’re a new parent or navigating the booster stage, knowing the legal requirements — and how to meet them — is crucial to keeping your child safe on the road.