How many points will be deducted if a child is caught sitting in the front passenger seat?
2 Answers
No points will be deducted for a child sitting in the front passenger seat. According to regulations, minors under the age of 12 are not allowed to sit in the front passenger seat. In the event of an accident, the deployment of the airbag can cause secondary injuries. If this situation is detected on urban roads, traffic police will issue a warning to the driver and require correction. On highways, warnings will be issued based on the actual circumstances. Most passenger cars have airbags in front of the front passenger seat to protect passengers in the event of a collision. During a severe collision, the airbag will deploy automatically, potentially causing secondary injuries to a minor sitting in the front passenger seat. Additionally, holding a child in the front passenger seat is not advisable, as the strong impact force during a collision can make it impossible to hold onto the child, potentially causing them to hit the windshield or even be thrown out of the window, leading to severe consequences. Reasons why children should not sit in the front passenger seat: In the event of an accident, the airbag deploys at a speed of approximately 300 km/h, with an impact force of about 180 kg. Children's bones are not fully developed and cannot withstand such a strong force, making them prone to injury. Children under 12 are generally smaller in size. Although the seat belt length can be adjusted, once fastened, the belt may press against the child's neck, posing a potential hazard. Child seats are specifically designed for children and are usually placed in the rear seats. The front seats of most cars do not have ISOFIX or LATCH interfaces, making it impossible to install a child seat there. Additionally, children sitting in the front passenger seat may reach for the dashboard, potentially distracting the driver and affecting safe driving.
A few days ago, I drove with my kid and accidentally let them sit in the front passenger seat. I got caught by a traffic camera, resulting in a 3-point deduction and a 200-yuan fine. After checking the traffic regulations, I learned that children under 12 are prohibited from sitting in the front seat because airbag deployment can harm their small bodies, potentially causing fractures or head/neck injuries. I used to let them sit beside me for convenience and conversation, but now I understand the high risks involved. Now, I always insist on having my child sit in the back with a safety seat. The point deduction, though minor, serves as a reminder not to be lazy. Safety is more important than anything—getting penalized is just the beginning; an accident would bring irreversible regret. Developing good habits can save a lot of trouble.
