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Smoking In Cars

Smoking in a private vehicle when someone under the age of 18 is present became illegal in England and Wales on 1st October 2015. This legislation represents a significant step in protecting children from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.

What's The Issue?

Second-hand smoke exposure in cars is particularly harmful, especially for children. Even with windows open, the confined space of a car traps smoke, exposing passengers to high levels of toxins. Children are especially vulnerable as their lungs are still developing, and they breathe more rapidly than adults, increasing their intake of harmful chemicals.

Why It Matters?

Protecting Children’s Health

Children exposed to second-hand smoke are at greater risk of respiratory infections, asthma, and ear problems. Studies show that even short exposure in a car can result in significant harm to their developing lungs and immune systems.

Reducing Disease Burden

Passive smoking in vehicles contributes to numerous cases of illness among children each year, including thousands of GP visits, hospital admissions, and even sudden infant deaths. This preventable harm places a significant burden on families and healthcare systems.

 

Public Support

Public backing for this legislation has been overwhelming, with 79% of Welsh adults supporting the ban before its introduction. This widespread agreement reflects a shared commitment to protecting children from harm.

Regulation Changes

The law introduced in 2015 made it illegal to smoke in a private vehicle carrying anyone under 18. This includes:

  1. A £50 fine for drivers or passengers caught smoking in a car with children.
  2. The ban applying to all vehicles with enclosed spaces, even with windows open or air conditioning on.
  3. Exemptions for convertible cars with fully down roofs or vehicles with only the smoker present.

Vapes are not included in this legislation.

Key Stats

  • A study conducted in 2014 revealed that 3.6% of children aged 10 and 11 reported being in a car where someone was smoking the previous day, a decrease from 6.9% in 2007
  • The percentage of children reporting that smoking was allowed in their family vehicle fell from 18% in 2008 to 9% in 2014, indicating increased adoption of smoke-free car policies even before the legislation was enacted.
  • Prior to the ban, 79% of Welsh adults supported prohibiting smoking in cars carrying children under 18, reflecting strong public backing for the legislation
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