Frequently Asked Questions

While there is a recommendation for the minimum space between an airbag and a driver's chest there is not a set guideline for how far a pregnant driver's belly should be from the steering wheel. Being able to drive safely and avoid an accident is the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your baby. Therefore ensuring you can properly reach the pedals and steering wheel is more important than having a large space between your belly and the wheel. For proper adjustment you must be able to press the brake pedal all the way to the floor with the ball of your foot fully contacting the pedal. You must also be able to grip the top of the steering wheel without leaning forward in your seat. Yes, this might mean there is a small gap between your belly and the steering wheel. However, the best way to keep your belly from hitting the steering wheel is to avoid being in a crash altogether.

You can move your seat further back, as long as you can still push the brake pedal all the way to the floor with the ball of your foot on the pedal. You can also try shortening your steering column. It is adjustable on many vehicles. Be sure you can still reach the top of the steering wheel without sitting forward. Some vehicles also have adjustable pedals. There may be a point in your pregnancy where you will need to ride as a passenger when possible.

You may need to lift your belly to place the lap belt under the curve of your bump. The lap belt may also need to be readjusted periodically as you drive. A helpful tip is to check your lap belt each time you are stopped at a red light and readjust as needed.

If there is a gap between your shoulder and the shoulder belt you can try adjusting the height of the shoulder belt where it comes out of the vehicle wall. You can also try adjusting the recline of your seat to a more upright position. You may also need to move your seat forward or adjust the height of your seat.

Modifying your brake and gas pedals should only be done by a professional. Please seek out a specialist who works with adaptive vehicles if you think you need pedal extenders to drive safely. 

Yes. You should always wear a seat belt, no matter what seat you are riding in. If the middle seat only has a lap belt it would be better to ride in a seat that has a lap and shoulder belt.  The front seats provide much better protection in a crash. It is recommended to ride in the front seat if you have the option.

No. The shoulder belt is designed to position your upper body in a crash. Without it your upper body can move further forward, increasing pressure on your abdomen and your risk for other injuries. 

You can try adjusting the seat belt so it rests against you without pressing into the sensitive spot on your belly. Try to avoid holding the lap belt away from yourself if you can. Pulling the belt away from yourself can create dangerous slack in the seat belt in the event of a crash. 

There is some potential that nerve or tissue damage from the seat belt and/or air bags can affect breastfeeding. Be sure to mention that you were in a car crash while you were pregnant to the person who is helping you with breastfeeding.