Every Detail Matters When It Comes to Child Safety



When it comes to your little one’s safety, every detail counts. Choosing the safest place to install your child’s car seat not only ensures protection in the event of an accident but also makes car journeys more comfortable and stress-free for everyone.

In addition, knowing the legal requirements, such as those set out in Article 55 of the Portuguese Highway Code, is essential — not only to avoid fines but, more importantly, to keep children safe.



Child Transport Legislation in Portugal



Article 55 of the Highway Code states that children under 12 years of age and under 135 cm in height must be transported using a certified child restraint system appropriate for their size and weight.

The car seat must be properly installed and adjusted according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure maximum safety.



Practical Tips for Installing a Car Seat



Check Compatibility: Before installation, confirm that the restraint system is compatible with your vehicle’s model and its fixing system.



Read the Manual: It may seem obvious, but it’s often overlooked. Both the car seat manual and the vehicle manual include key safety information.



Adjust Correctly: Ensure the seat fits the child’s size. Straps and supports must be properly positioned to provide optimal protection.



Seek Professional Help: If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for professional assistance to ensure correct installation.



Maintenance and Adjustment as Your Child Grows



As your child grows, adjustments will be necessary to ensure the seat continues to offer the right protection.

Regularly check that the seat remains securely installed and that all components are in good working order.



The Safest Place for a Car Seat



Studies show that the centre rear seat is generally the safest place for a child car seat, as it reduces the risk of side-impact injuries by keeping the child farther from the car’s impact zones.

However, not all vehicles allow correct installation in this position — always check the manufacturer’s recommendations.



Pros and Cons of Each Seat Position

Front Seat



Pros: Allows easy communication and monitoring between driver and child.

Cons: High risk due to airbag deployment, which can be fatal.

The law discourages and, in many cases, prohibits transporting children in the front seat except under specific conditions.



According to a survey by the Automóvel Club de Portugal (ACP), Cybex, and the Portuguese Road Safety Association (PRP), this position is used in only 3% of cases.



Legal note: Transporting a child in the front seat is permitted only:



If the child is under 3 years old and uses a rear-facing car seat with the airbag deactivated.



If the child is 3 years or older and the vehicle has no rear seat or no seat belts in the back.



Behind the Driver



Pros: Convenient for parents driving alone, as it allows easier access to the child.

Cons: Higher risk in side collisions on the driver’s side and when getting the child in and out from the roadside.



Centre Rear Seat



Pros: Considered the safest position, keeping the child furthest from potential side impacts.

Cons: Not all cars have seat belts or Isofix anchors in this position, which may make installation difficult.



Behind the Front Passenger



Pros: Often less exposed in side impacts and allows the child to enter and exit via the pavement side — the safest option for urban environments.

Cons: May be harder for the driver to reach the child while driving.



Final Thoughts



Each seating position has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should depend on the vehicle model, the restraint system, and family needs — always prioritising safety above convenience.



With knowledge, attention, and care, we can protect our little ones and ensure safer journeys for everyone.

Together, we can make a difference in child road safety.



References



Código da Estrada, approved by Decree-Law No. 114/94 of 3 May, amended by Law No. 72/2013 of 3 September.



What is the safest place to install a car seat? | Maxi-Cosi™ – Car Seats, Pushchairs & More.