The Hidden Dangers of Allowing a Child to Sit on Your Lap While Driving
As parents, we all strive to create joyful and memorable moments with our children. However, certain actions—no matter how innocent they may seem—pose serious risks. One such dangerous yet alarmingly common practice is allowing a child to sit on the driver’s lap while operating a vehicle, especially on highways. While some may view it as a playful interaction, the reality is that this behavior endangers not only the child but also the driver, passengers, and other road users.
The Risks of Allowing a Child to Sit on the Driver’s Lap While Driving
- Lack of Protection in an Accident
Modern vehicles are equipped with safety features such as seat belts and airbags designed to protect passengers during a collision. A child sitting on the driver’s lap lacks any form of restraint. In the event of a sudden stop or crash, the force of impact could cause the child to be crushed between the driver and the steering wheel or, even worse, ejected from the vehicle. - Driver Distraction
A child sitting on the driver’s lap is a significant distraction. They may unexpectedly grab the steering wheel, obstruct the driver’s view, or unintentionally interfere with vehicle controls, all of which can lead to a loss of control and a potential accident. - Endangering Other Road Users
This reckless act not only jeopardizes the driver and the child but also poses a danger to other motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Other drivers may have to swerve or brake suddenly to avoid a collision, increasing the risk of multi-vehicle accidents.
Legal Consequences of Violating Child Safety Laws
Federal and Abu Dhabi-Specific Regulations
- Ministerial Resolution No. 178 of 2017 mandates that all passengers, including those in the rear seats, must wear seat belts. It further specifies that children up to four years of age must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat. Failure to comply results in a fine of AED 400 and four black points on the driver’s record. Additionally, children under 10 years of age or shorter than 145 cm are prohibited from occupying the front seat.
- Abu Dhabi Law No. 5 of 2020 states that allowing a child under 10 years old to sit in the front seat results in a fine of AED 400. Furthermore, the vehicle will be impounded, and the owner must pay AED 5,000 for its release within three months. Failure to make the payment may result in the vehicle being auctioned.
Recent Enforcement by Dubai Police
On March 14, 2025, Dubai Police issued a fine after identifying a parent driving on a highway with a child sitting on their lap and holding the steering wheel. This was deemed a serious violation and a direct threat to the safety of the child, the driver, and others on the road.
Potential Legal Consequences if a Child Dies Due to Negligence
If a child loses their life due to a preventable mistake—such as sitting on the driver’s lap without proper restraints—serious legal repercussions may follow, including:
- Criminal Charges
- Negligence / Reckless Endangerment: Endangering a child’s life due to failure to adhere to safety measures may result in criminal charges.
- Involuntary Manslaughter / Criminally Negligent Homicide: If a child’s death is directly linked to the driver’s irresponsibility, authorities may charge the individual with involuntary manslaughter, which carries severe penalties.
- Civil Liability (Lawsuits)
- Family members of the deceased child may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party.
- The court may order compensation for damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Blood money (Diya)
- Other financial penalties as determined by the court
We urge all parents to prioritize safety while driving. Engaging in risky behaviors, such as allowing a child to sit on the driver’s lap, not only invites severe legal consequences but, more importantly, can lead to the tragic loss of a child’s life. Let us all commit to safer driving practices to protect our children and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
For further advice on related matters, please contact Mahmood Shakir Al Mashhadani Senior Associate at Galadari Advocates and Legal Consultants, at mahmood@galadarilaw.com
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Mahmood Shakir Al Mashhadani
Senior Associate mahmood@galadarilaw.com |
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