Specifically, for all automobiles (including taxis, service vehicles and private cars) transporting children under 10 years old and under 1.35 meters tall: If a child sits in the same row as the driver or is not secured in an appropriate safety device, the driver will be fined from VND 800,000 to 1,000,000 .

While many people support the new rule, considering it an important step toward protecting children in traffic, there are also concerns about its feasibility, cost, and how it will be applied to different age groups.

Ly Văn Thành, a resident of Residential Group 5, Điện Biên Phủ ward, has three young children aged 1, 4, and 6. He previously purchased an infant car seat for his newborn, but with the new requirement, he is unsure how to accommodate multiple children at different ages.

“I fully support the regulation, children’s safety always comes first,” Thành said. “But with three kids in different age groups, installing all the devices in the back row is extremely difficult. I hope authorities will provide clear guidelines, a suitable rollout plan, and possibly some support or incentives, so the regulation doesn’t end up being good on paper but hard to apply in real life.”

Similarly, Lò Ngọc Lan from Residential Group 3, Sam Mứn commune is concerned because she is not yet clear on what qualifies as a “safety device.” Lan shared: “I’m still confused. I don’t know which children need dedicated seats, which can use other devices, or how difficult they are to install. And the fines aren’t small, so many people are worried and unsure whether they’ll comply correctly from the start.”

According to guidance from the national Traffic Safety Committee, child safety devices for cars may include: infant seats (generally for under 2 years old), child car seats (for ages 2-6), and booster seats or cushions (for ages 6-10). Prices vary widely on the market, ranging from about VND 1.5-2 million for basic models, VND 2-6 million for mid-range options, and up to VND 10-20 million or even VND 50 million for high-end products with advanced features.

With this price range, families can choose based on their financial means and actual needs.

According to the Traffic Police Division of the Điện Biên provincial Police Department, Điện Biên province currently has 13,576 private cars (4-9 seats), mostly concentrated in urban areas such as Điện Biên Phủ ward and Mường Thanh ward.

Lieutenant Colonel Trần Chùng Điệp, Deputy Head of the Traffic Police Division, said the unit will step up communication and legal education on child safety devices for private car users. This will include direct communication during traffic inspections and broader public information campaigns. Plans include “Safety for children” programs in residential areas, preschools, and primary schools, where parents can practice installing seats under expert guidance, and “Consultation points for child seat installation” at vehicle inspection centers, driving schools and police offices.

The use of child safety devices is essential because regular seat belts are designed for adults and are ineffective for children. Proper safety devices position the seat belt correctly across a child’s shoulders, chest and hips, helping reduce injury risk during collisions. At the same time, using child safety devices fosters compliance with traffic regulations and contributes to a broader culture of safe driving.