Transporting a child in a car is a significant responsibility. Whether you’re a new parent, grandparent, or occasional caregiver, you must ensure their safety on every trip, even the shortest one. At \u00c9cole Somerled, we believe road safety starts with prevention and the right habits. Here’s everything you need to know to drive with peace of mind when a child is on board.<\/p>\n
In Quebec, the Soci\u00e9t\u00e9 de l\u2019assurance automobile du Qu\u00e9bec (SAAQ)<\/strong><\/a> strictly regulates the transportation of children in vehicles:<\/p>\n An appropriate car seat<\/strong> is mandatory for all children under 9 years old or<\/strong> under 145 cm (4 ft 9 in) tall.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n The seat must meet Canadian safety standards<\/strong> (look for the sticker indicating compliance).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n A seat belt alone should only be used when the child is tall enough that it rests properly on their hips and shoulder<\/strong>, without a booster seat.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \ud83d\udc49 Fine for non-compliance<\/strong>: $80 to $100, plus 3 demerit points.<\/a><\/p>\n In Quebec, the law requires children to be seated in a restraint system adapted to their weight and height until the age of 9 or until they are 145 cm (4 ft 9 in) tall.<\/p>\n From birth to 10 kg (22 lb)<\/strong>:<\/span> Use a rear-facing car seat.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n From 10 to 18 kg (22 to 40 lb)<\/strong>: Switch to a forward-facing seat with harness.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n From 18 to 36 kg (40 to 80 lb)<\/strong>: Use a booster seat until the seatbelt fits properly without it.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \u26a0\ufe0f Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your seat.<\/strong> Ensure it is properly installed and does not move more than 2.5 cm in any direction.<\/p>\n Even with the best intentions, some mistakes can compromise a child’s safety in the car:<\/p>\n Not fastening the harness correctly (e.g., thick coat under the straps).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Using a second-hand seat without knowing its history.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Installing the seat without following recommended angles or anchors.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Switching to the next seat or to a seatbelt too early.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n A good habit:<\/span><\/strong> have your installation checked by a certified technician<\/strong><\/span> or watch official SAAQ videos.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udc49 Distraction is one of the most common pitfalls for new drivers. Also read: Top 10 common mistakes new drivers make and how to avoid them<\/a><\/p>\n With a child on board, your driving behavior must be exemplary:<\/p>\n Keep your distance<\/strong> from other vehicles.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Avoid sudden braking<\/strong> or sharp turns.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Respect speed limits<\/strong>, especially in school or residential zones.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Anticipate hazards<\/strong>: you\u2019re responsible for a vulnerable passenger.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Children need to move. On long trips, it is recommended to take a break every 2 hours<\/strong>. This helps:<\/p>\n Stretch their legs,<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Calm any potential agitation,<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Prevent driver fatigue.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Don\u2019t forget to keep water, a snack, and a few quiet toys within reach to occupy the child without distracting the driver.<\/p>\n Even for a quick errand, never leave a child alone in a vehicle<\/strong><\/span>, summer or winter. Interior temperatures can rise rapidly or drop below freezing. This can have tragic consequences \u2014 and is also subject to legal penalties.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udc49 Want to reduce fuel consumption during family trips? Check out: How to reduce your fuel consumption and save money<\/a><\/p>\n Children learn by observing. Set an exemplary driving behavior<\/strong><\/span> yourself:<\/p>\n\n
\n2. Installing the Car Seat According to Age<\/span><\/h2>\n
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\n3. Avoiding Common Mistakes<\/span><\/h2>\n
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\n4. Practicing Cautious and Smooth Driving<\/span><\/h2>\n
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\n5. Taking Regular Breaks on Long Trips<\/span><\/h2>\n
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\n6. Never Leave a Child Alone in the Car<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n7. Set the Right Example<\/span><\/h2>\n