When it comes to our car’s protection, we must consider different possible sources of danger. For this, many secure car insurance in the Philippines in advance to be prepared against natural disasters and accidents. As for the passengers, we should also consider everyone’s needs in the car, especially the more vulnerable ones like children.
Last February 2, 2021, the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act or the “child car seat law” was supposed to take effect. This requires private motorists to use car seats for passengers younger than 12 years old and shorter than 4’11. Anyone who uses expired or non-compliant child car seats would be facing a fine of PHP1,000 for the first offense, PHP3,000 for the second offense, and PHP5,000 for the third offense.
However, this was retracted soon after, as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) agreed with President Duterte to defer the implementation. Currently, they have shifted to a soft enforcement of this law for at least 6 months while conducting more study.
Nevertheless, this makes us think of the importance of using child restraint systems (CRS). Is this really an essential? Know the pros and cons of having a child car seat below:
The Pros
These are the advantages of getting a car seat when travelling with kids:
- Protection from road accidents – According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 12,000 Filipinos die on the road every year. This makes road traffic injuries and fatalities still a major public health concern. With this in mind, it would be safer to have a tool in safeguarding the children you are travelling with in the car.
- Added convenience – If you frequently drive or commute with children, car seats can offer added comfort for them. Some of these are also multipurpose—they can be convertible into strollers or come with a built-in airbag.
- Being in compliance with the law – Aside from safety issues, getting a child car seat beforehand can help you adhere to road regulations that may inevitably take place in the future.
The Cons
On the other hand, here are some disadvantages to keep in mind:
- Burden of cost – Depending on the brand, design, and features, the price of quality child car seats today can range from PHP2,000 to 9,000—and these are still on the cheaper side. This is from a combination of local and foreign brands, including options from various online shopping platforms.
- Having more carry-ons – Child car seats may potentially be needed as a carry-on for public transports someday. But for now, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is mandated to study the use and feasibility of using child restraint systems (CRS) for travel in Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs).
Making your decision
Whether it is through the use of child car seats or not, start thinking of ways to provide more security for the children you travel with. Doing so would accommodate upcoming laws, increase road awareness, and prevent you from paying fines. Complete your preparations today for future drives with the best car insurance in the Philippines.