Being a mom is an exciting journey. Soon-to-be moms want to ensure they are fully prepared to handle the added responsibility of driving and transporting their precious cargo. As well as all set to learn about essential driving tips for expectant moms to stay safe on road.
Expectant moms face a unique set of challenges when it comes to driving. From extra fatigue and frequent bathroom breaks to growing bellies that can make it difficult to reach the pedals, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure safe and comfortable journeys.
As an expecting mother, there are specific essential driving tips you need to be aware of to ensure a safe and comfortable trip for you and your little one. To provide you with the best driving experience possible during your pregnancy, here are 7 essential tips to help you stay safe on the road.
1. Wear your seatbelt correctly
As a pregnant woman, you already have so much on your plate and don’t need to add another thing to your list. However, one essential driving tip all moms should heed is to wear their seatbelts correctly.
While pregnant, you need to wear your seatbelt between your breasts (over the breastbone), with the strap resting over your shoulder. Also, ensure the lap belt is flat on your thighs, fitting comfortably beneath your enlarged abdomen, and over the pelvis not the bump.
Wearing your seatbelt in this position will distribute the force of a collision across your abdominal muscles and protect your baby. Additionally, pregnant women are at a higher risk of blood clots, which can be fatal. Proper seatbelt usage reduces this risk by helping to prevent the flow of fluids back to your heart.
2. Know the steps to take in the event of an accident
Although rare, the unfortunate reality is that some expecting mothers experience an accident during pregnancy. If you are ever in a car accident, you must be aware of the steps to take to protect yourself and your baby.
In most cases, a regular seatbelt will protect you and your baby as long as you wear it correctly, as mentioned above. However, in a severe car accident, you need to know the proper steps to take, like seeking immediate medical help and documenting the scene (if you were not fatally injured).
According to The Barnes Firm, a renowned legal firm of car accident lawyers, you could file a personal injury lawsuit if the accident resulted from a negligent driver and get the personal injury settlement you deserve.
But in all, knowing what to do during a car accident as an expectant mother will help you prepare for the unexpected and act quickly and effectively should such a situation occur.
3. Get a Prenatal Check-up – Driving Tips for Expectant Moms
Before hitting the road as an expecting mother, you must see your doctor to receive a recommendation to drive. Although most driving restrictions are lifted at the end of the first trimester, receiving a medical go-ahead to drive is essential.
With a detailed prenatal check-up, your doctor can let you know if you need to modify your driving habits in any way. Your doctor can assess your situation and determine if you can drive. This is particularly important if you have any complications or symptoms, like elevated blood pressure or extreme fatigue.
For example, if you are experiencing pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome, your doctor can recommend ways to prevent or manage this pain. If you are experiencing any complications or symptoms, your doctor will be able to provide you with the best advice on how to proceed with driving during your pregnancy.
4. Wear comfortable clothing – Driving Tips for Expectant Moms
As your pregnancy progresses and your body changes, your clothing options will change too. In the early stages of pregnancy, many expecting mothers can continue to wear their regular clothes. However, as the pregnancy progresses, it can be hard to find clothes that fit due to a growing bump.
If your regular clothes do not fit well anymore, it is important to find alternative clothing options that are comfortable and stretchy. It can be helpful to shop for maternity clothes early on in your pregnancy so that you have plenty of time to find a great selection of clothing options.
Maternity clothes are designed to be extra stretchy and comfortable to ensure you have enough room to breathe while also staying stylish.
5. Be aware of your fatigue & energy levels
Driving can be tiring, especially during pregnancy when you might be experiencing an increased level of fatigue. To stay safe on the road, it is important to know your limits and to make adjustments as needed.
If you are feeling fatigued or need more frequent breaks, it is important to take them. Driving when you are too tired can lead to serious accidents. During pregnancy, it is important to take frequent breaks and to avoid driving long distances.
If possible, try to find someone to accompany you on longer trips or to help relieve you while driving. Keep in mind that fatigue can creep up on you so be sure to stay hydrated and get enough rest before hitting the road.
6. Take time for frequent breaks – Driving Tips for Expectant Moms
As mentioned above, taking frequent breaks while driving is essential to avoid becoming fatigued and prevent accidents. Depending on your pregnancy, you may need more frequent breaks than usual. It is necessary to pay attention to your own body and follow your own needs when driving.
As your pregnancy progresses, it is important to take breaks before you feel fatigued and before your body shows signs of fatigue. A good rule of thumb to follow is to take a break every couple of hours. This will allow you enough time to rest and avoid fatigue.
7. Adjust your seat & steering wheel
A lot can change during your pregnancy and the added weight of your growing baby can affect your ability to reach the pedals.
Additionally, your body will be in a different position, so it is important to adjust your seat so that you feel comfortable, safe, and relaxed. One great way to maximize your driving comfort is to use lumbar support to help distribute your weight.
Also be sure to adjust your steering wheel so that you are comfortable reaching the pedals with ease. Try to avoid having your seat positioned too far back and facing the steering wheel as this can cause cramping and discomfort in your legs.
Wrapping up
You can expect pregnancy to bring a lot of changes. To help you stay prepared and focused on the road, try using these tips as a checklist for safe and comfortable driving during your pregnancy.
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