Next week is Child Passenger Safety Week, so in continuation of our car seat and booster seat safety tips, we are providing safety information for pregnant mothers. Seat belts are imperative to provide protection for adults, children, and infants in the event of a crash. But don’t forget about pregnant mothers and their unborn children. Some people hold the false belief that seat belt usage while pregnant can harm an unborn child. In fact, the opposite is true – the most effective way to protect an unborn child in an accident is to wear a seatbelt, according to doctors.
This misguided belief these dangers exist to pregnant women may stem from a lack of education. There are, in fact, dangers associated with wearing a seat belt incorrectly while pregnant. The correct method of wearing a seat belt is away from the neck, across the chest, and under the belly so that it’s across the hips and pelvic bone. Avoid putting the seat belt behind the back, or across the belly. While behind the wheel of a vehicle, pregnant mothers should leave sufficient space between their bellies and the steering wheel, while still being able to reach the pedals. Reclining too far can be dangerous in the event of a crash as well.
A big misconception is that air bags are replacements for seat belts, and that seat belts aren’t as necessary if a vehicle has airbags. That is not true. A seat belt should be worn at all times, and the air bags are structured not to replace seat belts – but work with them. Doctors advise pregnant mothers to never turn off their air bags. Think of seat belts and air bags working together as a team, with the best results when both come together to do their jobs.
As always, if you find yourself injured in an automobile accident it is important that you seek medical attention immediately following the crash. It is possible that there are internal injuries or distress that are not felt until well after an accident.
At Jones & Swanson, we care about your awareness and safety. We hope that you never find yourself in an accident, but if you do we are available to assist you any way we can. It can be an emotional and stressful time, and seeking the proper legal counsel can assure that you and your loved ones are protected. Call us at 770-427-5498 for a free consultation.
Categories: Airbag Safety, Car Seat Safety, Safety Tips, Seatbelt Safety
