Are you unsure if it's safe to drive when you're pregnant? Read on to get some handy pregnancy driving advice.
It's only natural to worry about whether being pregnant could affect your usual routines. One of the most commonly asked questions is, ‘Can I drive when pregnant?'
The good news is that, as long as you're feeling fine, being pregnant shouldn't stop you driving your usual car for the majority of your pregnancy. Being safe in the car is important at all times, and especially so during pregnancy.
By taking note of pregnancy driving advice, you should be able to stay on the road, driving safely and comfortably.
Seat belts, airbags and pregnancy
Although it may feel uncomfortable wearing a seatbelt over your bump, it's crucial for safety reasons to always wear one. Try and adjust the shoulder belt so that it goes over the top of your bump, rather than across it.
Another worry for women seeking pregnancy driving advice is whether it's safe to sit near an airbag. It is safe, although you may need to move your seat further back – especially when your bump is big!
Driving when pregnant
If you're suffering from swollen ankles or cramp in your legs, then avoid long drives without stops. When you do stop, wiggle your ankles and flex your legs to boost circulation. Keep your car well maintained too, so that you don't have any unexpected breakdowns.
Towards the end of pregnancy, you may feel more tired than usual and your large bump may feel uncomfortable. Take note of how you're feeling and avoid your usual car drive if you don't feel up to it.
If your car is involved in an accident when you're pregnant, then always ensure you get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel fine.
And finally, as with any accident, remember to let your insurance provider know.