Baby on Board: safe driving for mothers-to-be

Protect your baby and belt up – your seat belt is the only thing stopping you from flying forward and hitting your abdomen on the steering wheel. Wear the lap strap below your bump, as low as possible, from hip-bone to hip-bone. Keep the diagonal strap between your breasts, moving the strap around the side of your bump.

• You can move the seat back, as long as you adjust your mirrors accordingly and can reach the brake, accelerator and clutch. You can buy after-market pedal extenders for this purpose.
• Being an extra three inches away from the steering wheel makes a lot of difference in an accident.If your employer doesn't offer to do so, ask them to carry out a full risk assessment for your driving activity.
• Make your contacts/customers aware of your pregnancy. Most people are tolerant and this will enable you to take the necessary extra care and time when you need it.
• Plan for breaks on journeys (long and short) - check where you can do so safely in advance. Cramps in your legs are morelikely when stuck in heavy traffic, so plan your journeys to avoid this or make sure you can take a break
• Don't drive if you know that your condition means you cannot control your vehicle effectively. You must be in controlof your vehicle to drive legally.

Amanda said: "A lot of women don't like the way belts feel but wearing a seatbelt while pregnant will not harm your baby, so buckle up before making your journey"

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Notes to editors:

IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK's largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling. The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses. Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.

Note to the editor:

1. Forinformation about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

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