Car Crash Risk For Pregnant Drivers

Pregnant ladies in the UK have long been advised to avoid looping roller coasters and ordered to cut down on the caffeine. But a new Canadian study may well add driving to the list of activities to avoid.

A new study, carried out by the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto, has suggested that pregnant women are more likely to be involved in a serious road traffic accident than those not with child.

Canvassing more than half a million pregnant women, the research investigated symptoms of pregnancy such as insomnia, fatigue, nausea and distraction to ascertain whether it might contribute to the risk of human error when behind the wheel.

One of the more startling statistics to come from this fascinating study was that during the three years before pregnancy, the women had an average of 177 crashes per month, whereas during the second trimester of pregnancy this increased to 252 per month – signalling a 42% increase in the number of serious traffic accidents.

Donald Redelmeier, of the ICES and lead author of the study, said he became concerned about driving safety after talking to pregnant patient: “They often ask me about flying on planes, sitting in hot tubs and scuba diving, but never have I been asked about traffic accidents, despite the possible threat.”

Redelmeier said he decided to investigate the risk when he realised no one had before. “Because pregnancy isn't an illness and road crash isn't a medical disease, it simply wasn't in any of the textbooks.”

Redelmeier's study found that about 1 in 50 pregnant women will be involved in a serious motor-vehicle accident.

Even when pregnant women are passengers in cars, there is a reported risk of miscarriages stemming from a serious crash.

Redelmeier speculates that women who have passed the first trimester of pregnancy may feel a false sense of security, combined with insomnia, back pain, and what has been termed “a more hectic life”.

Stress, pains, and a busy schedule often lead drivers to be less than focused while driving, and distracted driving is a proven global cause of road traffic accidents.

So, what can you do to stay safe on the roads while pregnant?

1. Wear a seat belt:

Not only is it the law, wearing a seat belt will protect you and your unborn child if involved in a car accident. The most comfortable way to wear a seat belt is to allow the waist strap to rest below the bump, while the shoulder strap should slide effortlessly across the chest.

2. Position yourself correctly:

Move your seat as far back as is comfortable and tilt it slightly away from the steering wheel. Try to position yourself at least 25cm from the steering wheel.

3. Take regular breaks:

It's important to keep healthy circulation, particularly in your legs. Take regular breaks, even if just for a couple of minutes, so you can stretch your legs.

4. Minimise driving at night:

Night driving is more dangerous and not just for pregnant women. Night driving reduces visibility, increases the chance of encountering a drunk driver and increases fatigue.

5. Fill up before hitting the road:

If you're pregnant, it's imperative to keep your blood sugar at a healthy level so make sure you eat properly. Drinking lots of water is important and bottled water and fruit should be carried when travelling.

6. Prepare for health emergencies:

Your health is at greater risk during pregnancy, which multiplies when you get behind the wheel. Packing a travel pillow, toiletries, fully-charged mobile phone and additional clothes is recommended.

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