In Italy, the legislature is trying to put a stop to such terrible events. Because, despite uniform regulations within the EU, other regulations apply in Italy: In the popular holiday country, for children up to four years Only child seats equipped with an alarm system (“Salva Bebè”) may be used. The alarm inside and outside the vehicle must warn that someone is still in the child seat using suitable visual and acoustic signals or visual and tactile signals. This is to prevent parents from forgetting their child in the car in the stress of everyday life due to carelessness and small children from suffering heat stroke in the car, for example.
If you are caught in Italy without a child seat that complies with the regulations, you risk a fine of between 81 and 326 euros. In addition, according to the automobile club, the driver would be subject to the Italian penalty point system 5 points deducted and for a further violation within two years a Driving ban of at least 15 days be imposed.
Does this also apply to vacationers?
The alarm regulation only applies to vehicles registered in Italy. This means that German vacationers who are not resident in Italy and whose vehicle is not registered there do not have to fear any penalties for non-compliance. But be careful: If you are on holiday in Italy, you should use a license that is licensed there rental car use, you need a child seat with an alarm signal – so it’s best to pay attention to this when renting.
But not only Italy plays by its own rules when it comes to child seats. Our tip: If you are traveling abroad with a child and car, it is best to find out before you travel which regulations apply in your holiday country. Otherwise you risk a more or less hefty fine if you violate the local rules.