Am Fam Physician. 2014;90(10):online
See related article on car safety during pregnancy.
Should I wear a seat belt when I'm pregnant?
Yes, you should wear both the lap belt and the shoulder strap. In a car crash, seat belts are the best protection for you and your unborn child. Four out of five unborn babies who die in car crashes would have lived if their mothers had worn seat belts.
What's the right way to wear a seat belt when pregnant?
Lap belt:
Buckle the lap belt below your belly so it fits snugly across your hips
Never place the lap belt above or on your belly
Shoulder belt:
Place the shoulder belt between your breasts and away from your neck
Never place the shoulder belt behind your back or under your arm
Pull the belt tight
Do I still need a seat belt if the car or truck has air bags?
Yes, you still need a seat belt. Do not turn off the air bags. They add extra protection.
How should I adjust my seat?
Move the front seat as far back as possible. Your breastbone should be at least 10 inches from the steering wheel if you are driving, and at least 10 inches from the dashboard if you are a passenger.
What else should I do to stay safe while driving?
Avoid distractions. That means:
No talking on the phone
No texting
No eating
No feeding children or handing them toys
No combing your hair, putting on makeup, or other grooming
No changing CDs or DVDs
No looking at a GPS screen
No using alcohol or other drugs (or riding with a driver who has used alcohol or other drugs)
Where can I get more information?
Your doctor
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
