Pregnant female drivers urged to follow seatbelt guidance

Women's car insurance policyholders expecting a baby might want to follow some expert motoring tips to help stay safe and comfortable on the road.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has issued advice for mums-to-be to follow when travelling on the road, including the need for wearing a seatbelt.

"The steering wheel hitting the abdomen is the main danger for pregnant drivers in a collision, and the seatbelt is the only thing stopping the driver flying forward," commented Peter Rodger, IAM chief examiner.

Wearing a seatbelt may be uncomfortable for some expecting drivers, who let the shoulder strap or belt ride up to the middle of their abdomen without realising the danger this causes.

In fact, the lap belt should be worn under the bump from hip bone to hip bone and female drivers can push their seat back as long as they can still reach the pedals.

The IAM suggests drivers can invest in pedal extenders to make their travelling time more comfortable and avoid accidents that could result in car insurance claims.

Professor Sir Sabaratnam Arulkumaran, president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), said that RCOG supports the law stipulating that pregnant women should wear seatbelts.

"Correct use of seatbelts by pregnant women is important, as incorrect use can cause harm to the foetus and fail to protect the woman in the case of an accident," he stated.

Meanwhile, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents also advises pregnant women to wear seatbelts, with three-point options being the safest to use.

Let Budget compare car insurance from a panel of insurers to give you the best cover.

The views expressed within the article are entirely those of Adfero Ltd and are not those of the BGL Group