Page 'Niños con capacidades distintas: evita cometer estos errores en sus viajes en coche'

22/02/2021

What should we avoid when traveling to improve their car journeys? While this will depend on the specific needs of each child, here we address some general guidelines. We must remember that all children, without exception, have the right to travel in optimum safety conditions. 

It should therefore be borne in mind that, as a minimum, all children under 135 cm in height (we recommend up to 150 cm for a better adjustment of the seat belt) should use an approved child restraint system adapted to their height and weight and, above all, in accordance with their characteristics and needs, unless indicated otherwise by a specialist. In all cases, they must travel in the best safety conditions following medical recommendations. In this infographic we have compiled some car seat types according to the needs of each child.

In order to avoid making mistakes when traveling, here are some guidelines to avoid:

- Under no circumstances should a child with special needs travel without an approved child restraint system. Remember that their CRS must also comply with the approval standards or in force. This car seat must be adequate for the child's height and weight. In most cases, conventional car seats can be used. In all cases, the medical instructions for car travel must be followed regarding the most appropriate form of restraint.

-Instructions given by your pediatrician or medical specialist must be followed at all times, regarding how to travel and the precautions to be taken. He/she will also tell us if the child can travel without a conventional CRS or if he/she requires a special system.

-Child restraint systems must never be modified or used in any way other than the purpose indicated by their manufacturer unless, after a modification the seat has been re-tested and complies with the child seat approval regulations. In all cases, any modification must have the manufacturer's authorization. It should be noted that even small changes can significantly alter the performance of a car seat in the event of an accident.

-In some cases, the child may reach the maximum weight or height limit of their car seat, but still require additional postural support. In these cases, you must follow the medical indications given so they can still travel safely. Some children travel in a better position and with more abdominal support if they travel on a booster seat. 

-It is best not to travel more than necessary, especially taking into account the child's medical condition, as it may be advisable to limit unnecessary travel. 

-Bear in mind that offer greater protection, especially in vulnerable areas such as the head and neck. In fact, it is advised that they always travel in this direction and at least until the age of 4. For children with special needs this could be even more advisable. 

-. They must always use the rear seats, as indicated in the , which also list the exceptions for them to ride in the front. If necessary, . It should also be noted that the front airbag can be dangerous in the case of forward-facing child seats, as the child is placed very close to the dashboard. 

-Also avoid leaving the child alone in the back if he/she needs constant supervision or has special medical conditions. In these cases, it is recommended that there is always an adult to supervise and assist the child if necessary.

-When the child restraint system, follow the manufacturer's instructions and always consider the child's needs. For example, he/she may need the backrest to be more or less reclined or to have a specific element added according to his/her needs. Of course, we must bear in mind that we can only add elements that are approved and recommended by the manufacturer, otherwise they may compromise its safety. 

-Haste is never a good thing. Therefore, we must not install the child seat and the child quickly. It is necessary to dedicate the necessary time to do so. For example, and

-It is advisable to use a booster seat with a backrest when . This type of booster seat offers a high level of protection in side impacts, as well as good support and avoids making mistakes when fastening the seat belt.

-Traveling without the required medical precautions. This is another aspect to avoid. You must always travel with an emergency kit in the car with the medicine the child needs. 

-Never leave a child alone inside a car. Whether they are differently abled or not, they should always be accompanied by an adult to avoid accidents with serious consequences such as .

Long journeys without rest are also not recommended. We recommend stopping frequently and taking the child out of his/her seat to stretch and change position.  

-Medical equipment should always be secured. It must always have its battery fully charged and we recommend it is charged for at least double the estimated travel time. 

-Finally, medical equipment such as walkers or wheelchairs must be stowed in the luggage compartment, physically separated from the passenger compartment and passengers, and secured to prevent them from impacting against the occupants.

Consider that not all children have the same needs so we must therefore adapt our journey and the way in which they travel. In this article we have mentioned some general recommendations. You can find specific advice in our section on "".