Safety Tips: Driving While Pregnant

Compared to the average motorist, pregnant women face additional safety concerns when riding in motor vehicles.
It's not easy to drive when you're reaching around your 25-pound belly. Studies show that expectant moms are more likely to be involved in accidents than women who aren't pregnant. It might have something to do with driving under the influence of pregnancy, which can make you feel tired, nauseated, dizzy and unfocused.

Wear seatbelts
Use both the lap and the shoulder harness. Keep the lap belt down under your baby bump. Fasten the seat belt snugly beneath your abdomen, against the bony part of your pelvis. In the harmattan, remove your coat so that the belt stays low and in place. Pass the shoulder strap over your shoulder and across your chest between your breasts. It should feel snug without cutting into your shoulder or your neck. Don't tuck it under your arm or behind your back.

Take regular breaks. It's important to keep healthy circulation, particularly in your legs. Take regular breaks, even if just for a couple of minutes, so you can stretch your legs. If you'll be in the car for several hours, take frequent breaks. Get out of the car, stretch a bit and walk around and visit the restroom. You'll feel more alert for the next part of the journey and keep the circulation moving in your legs.

Night driving is exponentially more dangerous and not just for pregnant women. Night driving reduces visibility, increases the chance of encountering a drunk driver and increases fatigue. Especially as your pregnancy progresses and belly gets closer and closer to the steering wheel. If you must travel, plan the route to allow for safe breaks (toilet and leg-stretching) and let others know your travel plans. You should also think about your safety and comfort when entering and loading things into your vehicle.

Your health is at greater risk during pregnancy, which multiplies when you get behind the wheel. Packing a travel pillow, toiletries, fully-charged mobile phone and additional clothes is recommended. If you are far along in your pregnancy you could find these items particularly handy if birth comes earlier than expected.

Fill up before hitting the road. It is not just the car that needs to be kept topped up during a pregnancy. This is also essential for the mother-to-be behind the wheel. If you're pregnant, it's imperative to keep your blood sugar at a healthy level, and that you avoid eating unhealthy food. By eating before you leave the house, and packing some healthy snacks for the road, you can keep your blood sugar in check and eat healthily.

Drinking plenty of water is important and bottled water and fruit should be carried when travelling.
During pregnancy you can become tired sooner than you did when you weren't sharing your body with a growing bump. Realistically gauge your fatigue before you get behind the wheel. If you're too tired to concentrate, ask someone else to drive, wait until you're feeling a little more energetic or postpone your trip. Once you're out on the road, eat regularly and carry snacks and water to keep your blood sugar level.

May these recommendations contribute to increased safety awareness sharing our roads. For maintenance of your cars, Car Parts Nigeria is here to serve you and all your automobile complaints. Visit www.carpartsnigeria.com  or call 09099995678 for your car maintenance, servicing (with close proximity to your location) and other issues pertaining to your automobile. We offer the greatest satisfaction to our customers.

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