6 Tips to Ride Safely When Pregnant

1. Buckle Up Correctly

When you’re pregnant, wearing your seatbelt correctly is super important for both you and your baby. It might feel a bit awkward as your belly grows, but there are ways to make sure it’s safe and comfortable. The main goal is to keep the seatbelt away from your actual belly.

Lap Belt Placement

• Position the lap belt low. Try to get the lap belt portion as far down as you can, ideally under your belly and across your upper thighs or hip bones. It should lie flat and snug. This placement helps redirect the force of a crash away from your abdomen.
• Avoid placing the lap belt over your belly. This is the most critical part. If the lap belt is over your stomach, it can put direct pressure on your baby in case of a sudden stop or collision.
• Consider a seat belt positioner. If you’re finding it really hard to keep the lap belt in the right spot, there are products designed to help. These can redirect the belt safely away from your abdomen. Research shows these can be effective in protecting you and your baby, acting like a sort of "baby’s first car seat" by keeping the belt off your belly during travel. You can find more information on safe driving practices for expectant mothers here.

Shoulder Belt Placement

• The shoulder belt should go between your breasts. Make sure it lies flat across your chest. It should never be tucked under your arm or behind your back, as this reduces its effectiveness.
• Keep it snug. A loose shoulder belt won’t protect you as well.
• Adjust your seat. Sometimes, adjusting your seat position slightly can make it easier to get the shoulder belt in the right place.

Remember, wearing your seatbelt correctly is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your baby while driving. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.

2. Position Yourself Far Back From The Steering Wheel

When you’re the one behind the wheel, it’s super important to give yourself some extra space from the steering wheel. As your belly grows, you might find yourself leaning closer to it without even realizing it. Try to keep at least 10 inches between your breastbone and the steering wheel. This might seem like a lot, but it’s really about creating a buffer zone. If the airbag deploys, you don’t want it hitting you or the baby directly. It comes out really fast, like 200 mph, so that distance makes a big difference.

Adjusting Your Seat

To get that space, you’ll probably need to move your driver’s seat further back than you normally would. It might feel a little awkward at first, and you’ll need to make sure you can still comfortably reach the pedals and have good control. Sometimes, even moving the seat all the way back isn’t quite enough. If that’s the case, you might look into pedal extenders, though that’s a bit more involved. Also, don’t forget to adjust your mirrors to match your new seating position so you can see everything properly. It’s all about making sure you’re comfortable and safe, even if it means a few adjustments.

Airbag Safety

Airbags are designed to save lives, but during pregnancy, their force can be a concern. The goal is to position yourself so that if the airbag does deploy, it’s directed away from your abdomen. Some steering wheels can be tilted. If yours can, try tilting it upwards, towards your chest rather than your belly. This way, the force of the airbag would be directed more towards your chest bone, which is a bit safer than directly at your growing bump. Remember, the seat belt is still your primary safety device, but these adjustments help minimize any potential risks from other safety features. You can find more information on safe driving practices.

Passenger Positioning

Even if you’re not driving, your seating position as a passenger matters too. Try to sit as far back from the dashboard and airbag as you can. The back seat, especially the middle if it has a lap-shoulder belt, is often considered the safest spot. This helps keep you and your baby further away from any potential impact.

3. Plan Frequent Breaks

When you’re pregnant, your body is going through a lot of changes, and that can make long drives feel way more tiring than usual. It’s super important to listen to your body and not push yourself. Planning for frequent stops is a must. Think about adding an extra 15 minutes to shorter trips and even more for longer journeys. This gives you time to get out, stretch your legs, and just move around a bit. It really helps with circulation and can make you feel more alert, plus it’s a good excuse to use the restroom. You don’t want to be stuck sitting for hours on end, as this can lead to swelling and general discomfort. Breaking up the drive makes the whole experience much more manageable and safer for you and your baby.

Stretch and Move

When you stop, don’t just sit in the car. Get out and walk around for a few minutes. Even a short stroll can make a big difference. Try some simple stretches to ease any stiffness in your back or legs. This helps keep your blood flowing and can prevent that heavy, tired feeling. It’s also a good time to grab a healthy snack and some water to stay hydrated, which is really important when you’re pregnant. Staying hydrated helps you feel more energetic and focused.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you start to feel tired, dizzy, or uncomfortable at any point, it’s time to pull over. Don’t try to tough it out. Your well-being and your baby’s safety are the top priorities. It’s better to take an unscheduled break than to risk an accident. Remember, driving while pregnant can be more challenging, so being prepared and taking care of yourself is key. If you’re feeling unwell, it might be best to postpone your trip or have someone else do the driving. You can always check with your doctor about any specific driving restrictions they might recommend during your pregnancy.

4. Cut Down The Distractions

When you’re pregnant, your body is already going through a lot, so adding driving distractions can be a recipe for trouble. It’s really important to focus on the road. That means putting away the phone, resisting the urge to fiddle with the radio or GPS, and maybe even asking your passenger to handle those tasks. Think about it – even a few seconds looking away can be risky, and when you’re pregnant, your reaction time might not be what it usually is.

Minimize Phone Use

Your phone is probably the biggest culprit for driving distractions. It’s so easy to glance at a notification or quickly reply to a text, but it’s just not worth the risk. If you absolutely need to make a call or send a message, pull over to a safe spot first. Many people find it helpful to put their phone on ‘do not disturb’ mode or even in the glove compartment while they’re driving. This way, you’re not tempted.

Manage In-Car Entertainment

While music or podcasts can make a drive more enjoyable, constantly adjusting the volume, changing stations, or searching for a new show can take your attention away from driving. If you have a passenger, let them be the DJ. If you’re driving solo, set up your playlist or podcast before you start the engine. You might also want to consider turning the radio off altogether if it tends to distract you. Remember, safe driving practices are key.

Avoid Eating and Drinking While Driving

Grabbing a bite or a drink on the go might seem convenient, but it’s another common distraction. Juggling food, drinks, and the steering wheel isn’t ideal, especially when you need both hands on the wheel and your full attention on the road. It’s better to plan your meals and snacks during your breaks. If you do need to eat or drink something while driving, opt for easy-to-handle items that won’t spill or require much attention.

5. Remove Extra Layers

When you’re pregnant, your body temperature can fluctuate quite a bit, and you might feel warmer than usual. While it’s tempting to bundle up, especially if you’re driving in cooler weather, wearing bulky clothing like thick coats or jackets can actually be a safety hazard. These layers can get in the way of how your seat belt fits, making it less effective in a crash. Plus, if you overheat, you’ll get uncomfortable and distracted, which is the last thing you need when you’re behind the wheel. It’s better to dress in thinner layers that you can easily remove if you start to feel too warm. This way, you can stay comfortable and focused on the road. Think about it – a bulky coat could restrict your arm movements or make it harder to adjust your position, adding unnecessary risk. It’s always a good idea to have a lighter blanket or shawl handy if you get chilly, rather than a full coat that interferes with your seat belt. Remember, proper seat belt placement is key, and bulky clothing can really mess that up. You want to make sure that lap belt is snug and low, under your belly, and a thick coat can prevent you from getting it positioned just right. It’s also worth noting that if you’re planning any activities that involve a risk of falling, it’s best to avoid them, especially after your first trimester. Things like skiing or ice skating are definitely off the table avoid activities with a risk of falling.

6. Be A Passenger

Sit in the Back Seat

When you have the option, being a passenger is a great way to reduce driving stress. If you can, try to sit in the back seat. The middle rear seat is often the safest spot in the car, especially if it has a lap and shoulder belt. This position offers more protection in case of a crash. It also helps keep you further away from any potential airbag deployment. Remember, even as a passenger, you still need to buckle up correctly. The lap belt should go under your belly, across your upper thighs, and the shoulder belt should be between your breasts and off to the side of your belly. This ensures you and your baby are as protected as possible.

Minimize Airbag Impact

Airbags are designed to protect drivers and passengers, but during pregnancy, it’s wise to be extra cautious. If you’re the passenger, try to position your seat as far back as you comfortably can. The goal is to create as much distance as possible between yourself and the dashboard where the airbag is located. While airbags are generally safe, they deploy with significant force, and you want to minimize any direct impact on your abdomen. If you’re ever unsure about your seating position or airbag safety, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor or a child passenger safety technician.

Ride On Safely!

So there you have it – a few pointers to help you keep riding safely while you’re expecting. Remember, every pregnancy is a bit different, so it’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor about what feels right for you and your body. Listening to yourself is key, and if something feels off, don’t push it. Staying active is great, but your well-being and your baby’s are the top priorities. Enjoy the ride, and take care!

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I position myself in relation to the steering wheel?

It’s important to adjust your seat so you’re as far back from the steering wheel as you can be while still driving safely. Aim for at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel. This helps protect you and your baby if the airbag deploys.

Do I still need to wear a seatbelt?

Yes, wearing your seatbelt is crucial. The lap belt should go across your hips, under your belly, and the shoulder belt should rest between your breasts and to the side of your belly. This way, it protects both you and your baby.

Should I take breaks during my drive?

Definitely! When you’re pregnant, your body needs more breaks. Plan to stop every hour or so to walk around and stretch. This helps with blood flow and can prevent swelling.

Should I avoid distractions while driving?

Yes, it’s best to minimize distractions. Put your phone away, turn down the radio, and focus on the road. Pregnancy can make you more tired, so staying focused is even more important.

Should I wear a coat while driving?

It’s a good idea to take off bulky coats or jackets before driving. They can get in the way of the seatbelt and make you too warm, which can be uncomfortable and distracting.

Is it safer to be a passenger than a driver?

If possible, especially as your pregnancy progresses, it’s safer to be a passenger. If you must drive, try to sit in the back seat if you can. This puts more distance between you and the steering wheel and airbags.