- David Hort
Advice on driving whilst pregnant
There are a lot of myths and old wives tales that surround pregnancy and some, inevitably, relate to driving. Are you insured if you drive while pregnant? Should you avoid using a seatbelt? Should you stop driving at eight months?
While some women do not feel comfortable driving whilst pregnant there is actually no reason not to drive during pregnancy, assuming if you feel comfortable behind the wheel and that you can control the car to its full extent.
We’ve collected some information on what driving during pregnancy.
Driving whilst pregnant – tips
Seatbelt
Always use your seatbelt. Many women believe a seatbelt can harm their unborn child but there is no evidence to suggest that is true and in the event of a crash it is the only thing separating your stomach and the steering wheel.
Fasten the seatbelt beneath your bump and as close to the line of your hips as possible. Keep the vertical strap between your breasts too. Don’t wear a strap over your bump.
Space
Leave at least ten centimetres between your stomach and the steering wheel.
Ten centimetres is a guideline but in theory leave as much space between your stomach and the wheel without impairing your driving abilities.
If you do move your seat, ensure you adjust your mirrors accordingly and can reach the brake, accelerator and clutch.
Airbags
This leads on from leaving adequate spacing between your bump and the steering wheel. Airbags explode forcefully upon an impact so they inflate extremely quickly. As a result it’s advisable to leave enough space from the steering wheel, or to adjust them so they tilt away from your stomach where possible.
Projectiles
Make sure any loose items and objects in your car are securely fastened.
In the event of a crash a loose CD, steering wheel lock or owners’ manual can become a high-speed projectile. Keep all items secure to reduce the effects of a crash.
Are you sitting comfortably?
If you’re not comfortable behind the wheel of a car whilst pregnant then avoid driving.
Feet and ankles are prone to swelling during pregnancy – particularly if you’re sitting in the same position for a long time so take regular breaks to stretch your legs where necessary.
Lumbar support
During pregnancy, it’s common for women to get back pains and the constraints of a car journey can put additional stress on your body.
That’s why it’s important to make the car as comfortable as possible and use lumbar support to help your back cope. That can be something as simple as a pillow or a rolled up towel in the small of your back.
It’s also important to break your car journeys up with breaks and to stretch your legs.
Seek medical advice
If you have any doubts about your ability to drive properly, consult your doctor and inform your insurance company.
In the event of a crash, no matter how big or small, get yourself checked by a medical professional.
Common sense
There’s no substitute for common sense – if you’re due or overdue make sure you travel with someone, take a charged mobile phone or, at least, are with a breakdown service.
Avoid any unnecessary time on the road
It’s perfectly safe to drive during pregnancy but the deciding factor should be whether or not you feel safe and well enough to do so.
There is no reason for you not to drive if you feel fine but if you feel uncomfortable or worried behind the wheel then it’s probably best to avoid it.
Insurance
We haven’t found any evidence where car insurance is affected by pregnancy, though some insurance companies do ask to be notified in the event of a C-section, following a pregnancy.
Check with your insurer if you’re unsure.
There are a range of aftermarket extras that can be added to your car whilst pregnant to make driving more comfortable. The image above shows a 'bump belt' from Clippasafe.