Driving whilst pregnant

Driving when pregnant can be scary for a lot of mums, especially if it’s their first time expecting. There’s certainly that extra level of worry when driving while pregnant and some mums may even assume that getting behind the wheel while expecting is unsafe.

But you needn’t worry too much. As long as all other aspects of the pregnancy are going well and you’re feeling fine and healthy, it’s okay for expectant mums to drive as much as you need.

Driving while pregnant might mean tailoring your driving experience but things shouldn’t change too much. Of course, it’s important to accommodate bump and there are some extra precautions you may want to take, just in case… It’s also important to take your pregnancy notes just in case the baby decides to make an appearance. Bring a charger for your phone, too!

For any mums-to-be, proud partners or supportive friends who are worried about any part of driving when pregnant, we’ve put together a guide to driving while pregnant. It covers the UK laws and recommendations for pregnant drivers, alongside helpful tips and advice that will make your journey safer and more comfortable.

What are the UK laws around driving when pregnant?

There are currently no laws that stop pregnant women from getting behind the wheel at any point during pregnancy. All existing laws still apply to pregnant drivers, assuming you’re in a fit and proper condition to drive.

If you feel nauseous, exhausted or are struggling to physically get behind the wheel, it’s best to let someone else handle the driving. The National Childcare Trust (NCT) offers plenty of advice about staying safe if you’re travelling when pregnant.

Hopefully, you won’t have taken any illegal drugs or drunk more than the legal limit of alcohol, but you might find yourself feeling more tired and less able to concentrate while driving. While this is not strictly illegal, any serious accidents that happen if you’re asleep behind the wheel can result in a dangerous driving charge.

Do I need to wear a seat belt if I’m pregnant?

One law that is very relevant to pregnant drivers is the seat belt law. All drivers, even while pregnant, must wear a seat belt when driving. The NCT advises the following:

• Wear a three-point seat belt
• Ensure the shoulder belt goes over the shoulder, collarbone and down across the chest
• Wear the lap belt as low as possible (under the abdomen and the baby)
• Ensure the seat belt fits as comfortably as possible
• Adjust the seat for extra comfort

They also recommend that pregnant drivers and passengers avoid ‘lap-only belts’ as these have a history of causing serious injuries to unborn children if a car suddenly brakes.

You can, however, get a medical exemption certificate from your doctor if you have a valid reason for not wearing one.

This ‘Certificate of Exemption from Compulsory Seat Belt Wearing’ must be kept in your car at all times and must be shown to the police if you’re stopped. You should also inform your insurer if you are in possession of this certificate.

Airbag recommendations

Another part of driving that can worry expectant parents is whether airbags are completely safe and what could happen to the baby if they were to go off.

Airbags are an important safety feature and can be a literal lifesaver in my situations. Even if you’re pregnant, airbags will protect you by acting as a cushion and providing an energy-absorbing surface which can prevent or reduce the impact between you and the interior of the car.

This also reduces the impact on your unborn child which means there is no extra risk if an airbag goes off while you’re pregnant. If, however, you’re still worried, you can make things safer by moving the seat back as far as possible while still being able to reach the pedals. You can also tilt the steering wheel slightly so it and the airbag behind are not directly facing your bump.

What should I do if I’m in a car accident while I’m pregnant?

If you are involved in a car accident while pregnant you should always see a doctor as soon as possible. Even if it’s a light bump and you feel okay, it’s worth getting a check-up just in case.

A strong enough impact could cause the placenta to become detached and the baby can lose oxygen access. If you are involved in a serious accident and are taken to the hospital, make sure you inform paramedics or whoever first treats you that you are pregnant and how far along you are.

There is no specific car insurance for pregnant women as your regular insurance shouldn’t be affected. Whatever the stage of your pregnancy, insurance – including temporary car insurance – should remain in place as long as you feel you are capable of driving.

How to drive more comfortably while pregnant

There are a number of ways you can make your journey more comfortable – even if you decide to keep driving right up until your due date.

First and foremost, you need to take regular breaks, especially if you’re going on a long journey. From being able to go to the loo to having a stretch, you’ll reduce the likelihood of cramps, promote better blood circulation and generally feel a lot better if you reduce the amount of time you’re behind the wheel in one go.

Ensure you pack plenty of healthy snacks that will help keep you alert and energised while driving. You should also make sure you stay hydrated and while this may increase the number of stops you have to make, it’s much better for you and the baby.

When should you stop driving when pregnant?

Most mothers-to-be who stop driving when they’re pregnant do so simply because it becomes too uncomfortable. Their bump becomes too big to reach the steering wheel and pedals and they find it difficult to get in and out of the vehicle.

Some expectant mothers will also stop driving when they are unable to do so properly. For example, in the last few weeks of pregnancy, you might find it difficult to move and look around in the car.

Not being able to see around you or in your blind spot can be dangerous, so if you find yourself unable to drive comfortably, you should consider passing on the driving duties to someone else.

Tips for safer car travel during pregnancy

There are a number of ways you can make car journeys while pregnant more comfortable:

• Avoid long journeys if possible. If there is no way of doing this, try to share the driving (Tempcover’s temporary car insurance can give cover tailored to your needs)
• Make plenty of stops for fresh air and to stretch your legs
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Eat energy-giving food including fruits and nuts
• Keep the air circulating in your car
• Wear your seatbelt correctly
• Get plenty of rest before setting off
• Bring your medication and hospital bag

The NHS guide to travelling during pregnancy states: “Road accidents are among the most common causes of injury in pregnant women. If you have to make a long trip, don’t travel on your own. You could also share the driving with your companion.”

They also recommend some exercises for pregnant women who are not driving. These include flexing and rotating your feet and wiggling your toes to keep the blood flowing through your legs. This will reduce stiffness and discomfort, while wearing compression stockings on journeys over 4 hours can help prevent blood clots.

Can you do driving lessons while pregnant?

Yes, you can still have driving lessons when you’re pregnant but it’s best to ensure you feel comfortable doing so. You may want to tell your instructor about your upcoming arrival but this won’t affect the way your lessons are conducted.

Driving regardless of whether you’re pregnant or not comes with its own risks. If you’re a safe, aware and confident driver you will reduce the chances of being in an accident but unfortunately, there is no guarantee that everything will always be okay.

The decision of if or when you decide to stop driving while pregnant is truly a personal decision for which there is no right or wrong answer. Just make sure you are aware of the risks involved and take the proper precautions we’ve recommended above as well as general road safety advice.