In the new regulations for child restraint systems ECE R129 (i-size), the group of experts from the United Nations (grsp) that regulates the regulatory development of CRS decided that the universal criterion is that children face backwards until the 15 months. Rear-facing child seats offer better protection especially in the event of a frontal impact, one of the most serious and common road accidents. In this type of collision, the impact forces are dispersed in the back of the seat, so the child suffers less deceleration and absorbs less energy than if they were facing forwards.
Although the R129 regulation recommends that children travel rear facing up to 15 months, the previous ECE R44 regulation (still in force) requires that they travel in this way up to 13 kg (group 0+) and, optionally, up to 18 kg ( group 1). In these cases, it is advisable to follow the instructions of the car seat and the vehicle in this regard, always bearing in mind that the child must travel in a comfortable position and that the passenger compartment of the vehicle must allow a correct installation of the seat.