Driving for Two
Behind-the-Wheel Safety Tips for Expectant Moms
Pregnant women do face additional safety concerns when behind the wheel or as a passenger riding in motor vehicles, but many are not aware of the precautions to take to ensure safety. Then, six months later, when your belly is nearly hitting the steering wheel or you’re struggling to click that seatbelt, you or a loved one find yourself asking: Is it safe to ride in front of an airbag? What is the proper way to wear a seatbelt when you are pregnant? Is there anything I can do to ensure the safety of myself and my baby?
According to Allstate Insurance Company and Women’s Healthcare Topics (womenshealthcaretopics.com), the answer to that last question is yes. There are steps you can take to increase your safety while driving during pregnancy.
Wearing Seat Belts During Pregnancy
In the event of a car crash, you and your baby are best protected when you use a seat belt during pregnancy. Pregnant mothers should always use a lap and shoulder belt during pregnancy. The lap belt and shoulder belt work in combination to help prevent you from being ejected from the vehicle during pregnancy. The lap belt should always fit just under your pregnant belly, right across your hips and high on your thighs. The shoulder strap should nestle snuggly between your breasts and along the side of your belly during pregnancy.
Are Air Bags Safe To Use During Pregnancy
Air bags like seat belts are important safety precautions that should be used during pregnancy. Experts suggest that pregnant women keep their air bags turned on during pregnancy for the most part. To protect yourself and your baby you can move your seat back to the farthest position possible and tilt your seat slightly back if possible. This will allow more room between your belly and the dashboard in the unlikely event of an accident.
Improve Your Safety While Pregnant
There are many steps you can take to increase your safety while driving during pregnancy. You should avoid for example, talking on the cell phone while pregnant, whether or not you have a hands free set. Studies suggest that talking on the phone while pregnant is more dangerous than driving drunk.
“Pregnant women should also be prepared in case their car breaks down,” suggests Conte “Sign up for roadside assistance and 24-hour towing service when you discover you are pregnant. Pregnant women don’t need the stress or aggravation of being stranded on the side of the road.”
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