What is the minimum age for a child to sit in the front passenger seat on the highway?
2 Answers
There is no legal regulation specifying the minimum age for a child to sit in the front passenger seat, but it is highly unsafe for children to do so because the front passenger seat is the most dangerous position in a car. Generally, children under 12 years old (or shorter than 1.4 meters) should not sit in the front row. Driving on the highway requires adherence to designated lanes: Highways have clearly marked lanes for different types of vehicles, such as large trucks and small cars. When overtaking, once you occupy a lane, you should return to your original lane promptly after completing the maneuver and avoid occupying other lanes for extended periods. Additionally, the emergency lane should not be occupied for non-emergency reasons. Maintain a safe speed when driving on the highway: The dangers of speeding are well-known, as it can lead to irreversible consequences, whether on local roads or highways. Maintain a safe longitudinal distance between vehicles when driving on the highway: Under normal conditions, such as dry roads and good braking, the distance between vehicles (in meters) should not be less than the speed (in km/h). For example, at 80 km/h, the distance should be at least 80 meters, and at 100 km/h, it should be at least 100 meters. Always pay attention to roadside distance markers. In rainy, foggy, snowy, or wet road conditions, the distance should be doubled or more. Pay attention to traffic signs when driving on the highway: Always be aware of roadside and overhead signs and markings while driving, and stay to the right appropriately to avoid crossing the right lane divider, ensuring sufficient lateral distance for overtaking vehicles. Do not occupy the emergency lane unnecessarily in the event of a traffic accident: Traffic accidents are inevitable on highways. If other vehicles cause a blockage, do not occupy the emergency lane arbitrarily, as this may prevent rescue vehicles from reaching the scene. Avoid fatigued driving on the highway: Fatigued driving is extremely dangerous on highways. When fatigued, a driver's reaction time slows, making it difficult to respond correctly to sudden situations.
The other day when I took my little nephew on the highway, I specifically asked the traffic police about it - children must be at least 12 years old to sit in the front passenger seat. This is mainly for safety reasons: the passenger airbag's impact force is extremely strong and poses particular danger to children's fragile neck vertebrae. The officer reminded me that even with seatbelts fastened, sudden braking could cause the belt to injure a child's collarbone. They recommend all children under 12 sit in the back seat using proper child seats or boosters. If the trunk is full and the child must sit upfront, remember to deactivate the airbag - the switch is usually located on the side of the glove compartment. As parents, we shouldn't take chances with safety.
