Seat belts on Magical Express

[fab1976]

It's been 2 years since we were at WDW and I just found out they have added seat belts to the Magical Express. My daughter is 2.5. From seat safety I've read over the years, the shoulder/lap belt combo is not safe for this age, which is why they are to be in a harnessed car seat. However, Magical Express doesn't allow car seats! And, we are using Disney Cruiseline transportation, so in their eyes she will be a lap baby who doesn't require a seat. So basically, strap the adults in but little ones are a-ok on a lap not strapped in at all? Anyone have experience with the 2 yr old riding ME who can reassure me? I will not allow her to ride on our lap for the hour+ long trip to the port or back.

 

[craigkerstiens]

We've taken it a few times with our daughter between ages 2 and now 3.5. We didn't setup a car seat, I believe we have normally buckled her in, and while I'm sure she could easily slide out of it, overall her having a seat was no problem at all.

 

[DebbieB]

I rode DME to WDW last month and they did not say anything about using the seat belts and I didn't see anyone using them.

 

[bumbershoot]

I haven't seen anyone using the seat belts on DME or cruise transportation. It is a coach bus, coaches use compartmentalization for the safety of the passengers (I think that's the word), seatbelts are not traditionally used on coach buses.

 

[goofy4tink]

The newer buses have seat belts....the over the shoulder ones. And you're correct, no car seats are allowed. If you are concerned, you may be better off getting a car service. Their cars can accommodate car seats.

 

[fab1976]

I haven't seen anyone using the seat belts on DME or cruise transportation. It is a coach bus, coaches use compartmentalization for the safety of the passengers (I think that's the word), seatbelts are not traditionally used on coach buses.

That's why I was so confused!! Coach buses don't need belts, never have. But put them on the buses that transport kids who should really not be using them? Just seems....odd.

And it's not a worry of kids sliding out but the lap belt causing injuries, it can cut right into them. Think we'll be ignoring the seatbelt since we've ridden ME so many times before without!

 

[boufa]

That's why I was so confused!! Coach buses don't need belts, never have. But put them on the buses that transport kids who should really not be using them? Just seems....odd.

And it's not a worry of kids sliding out but the lap belt causing injuries, it can cut right into them. Think we'll be ignoring the seatbelt since we've ridden ME so many times before without!

This is a typical feel good response by Mears and the bus makers. Buses are designed in such a way, that seat belts (and child seats) are not required or even beneficial. However, the general public thinks they are doing everyone a favor by demanding seatbelts on buses. Don't like them, don't use them. The good news for you, the danger that comes from a small child using a seat belt comes from car situations (being thrown forward towards a windshield), and the seat belt shouldn't be an issue for a little kid, even in an accident situation.

 

[Clifton Tesh]

There's a lot of people lobbying trying to make seat belts mandatory on buses.

There's a good possibility it might become a national law. Certain stays have already made it state law.

The seat belts might just be Mears getting ready in case they make it a national law.

 

[Donna M]

I used the seat belts returning from my last cruise and like that they have them. They are planning (thinking) of retrofitting belts into our school buses, which will cost a fortune. My view is that seat belts will save lives if there is a major accident with a bus. I've read articles about bus fatalities. There just aren't that many accidents compared to cars. My kids would buckled up. Will a young child be hurt when thrown against the roof or seat back in a major crash, or injured by the impact of the belt? Neither would have a good outcome.