Jerusalem traffic police say they caught a 38-year-old resident of Beit Hanina, in East Jerusalem, driving with an 8-month-old baby sitting between his legs under the steering wheel, with no legal child restraint. The stop took place on Monday during covert enforcement operations in the neighborhood.
According to police, the man was also not wearing a seat belt himself, adding to the danger. After the vehicle was stopped, officers found the infant in a highly unsafe position inside the car. Police said the driver was issued a summons to stand trial for the offenses.
RSM Eli Matlub, commander of the Jerusalem District’s traffic enforcement unit, called the conduct “irresponsible” and said it “poses a real danger to the life of a helpless baby.” He stressed that an 8-month-old must be seated in accordance with the law in a proper child safety seat.
Matlub added that in the event of sudden braking or a crash, the consequences could be fatal. He said Israel Police treats traffic violations that endanger lives very seriously and will keep acting firmly against drivers who ignore the safety of their children and other road users.
