Seat Belt Safety for Expecting Moms

Many women find pregnancy to be a joyful time in their lives, but alongside the excitement there is often stress about how to stay as healthy as possible. For instance, it is crucial for pregnant women to prioritize their safety when traveling by car throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and surrounding states. Part of staying safe is wearing a seatbelt properly to protect both a mother and her unborn child.

While seat belt safety is essential for expecting moms, there is no way to completely erase the possibility of maternal injuries during an auto accident. If you sustained a material injury, talk through your compensation options with a Bucks County personal injury attorney.

Seat Belt Guidelines When Pregnant

The general rule for riding as safely as possible in a vehicle, whether you are pregnant or not, is to always wear a seatbelt and wear it correctly. Some who are pregnant are hesitant about belt restraints because they are concerned about the pressure on their abdomen, but modern seat belt designs can significantly reduce the risk of injuries. Simply adjusting the positioning is the key for expecting moms.

A few guidelines for expecting moms and seat belt use:

• Position a safety belt correctly. Pregnant women should place the lap belt portion or a seat belt low, so it is positioned below their growing belly and snugly across their hips. The shoulder belt portion should cross over the collarbone, between the breasts, so that it can be placed to the side of the belly.
• Making adjustments for comfort. Some women find they need to make adjustments to provide comfort without compromising safety, such as using small cushions or towels to adjust the seat belt’s position, but remember not to alter the belt’s path or make it less effective in restraining you during an accident.
• Avoiding hazards from airbags. To ensure that a pregnant woman is far enough from airbag deployment, maintain a safe distance from the steering wheel or dashboard.

Despite taking all necessary precautions, there are times when sudden, unexpected events occur. And for pregnant women involved in car accidents, there are unique risks that can lead to severe maternal injuries, including placental abruption, preterm labor, and abdominal injuries.

Assessing Damages and Negotiating with Insurance Adjusters

After an accident injury, damages can be assessed by a seasoned Bucks County personal injury attorney so that the full extent of your injuries, including medical fees, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical needs can be determined. This way, should you move forward with pursuing compensation, you will be seeking a full and fair settlement figure.

It is an unfortunate reality that an insurance company may attempt to offer a low settlement, but an attorney has the skills to negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

Did a traffic accident occur while you were pregnant? Connect with the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. to learn about your recovery options. Call 215-968-6602 to schedule your consultation today.