Early yesterday morning a Top 100 SA Company requested information about pregnancy and safe driving. Content was developed and added to the Arrive Alive website about aspects such as wearing of seatbelts, airbags etc. We would also like to add a few bits of advice on Car Blog with regards to adjustments within the vehicle of the mother-to-be:
• Make sure your seat is positioned comfortable and not too close to the steering wheel (in case of an accident and the air bag deploys).
• Leave some space (at least 10 cm) between your belly and steering wheel, bend back slightly. [Whilst still able to observe]
• If possible -use a vehicle with adjustable steering wheels and seats so that you can customize your seating position to optimize your control over the car.
• Check your view out of your mirrors if you push your seat back or change the height of the steering wheel.
• Make sure that after you adjust your seat you can still comfortably reach the accelerator, brake, and clutch – if you are stretching to reach the pedals, it could affect your reaction time.
• Remove coats or jackets that restrict your ability to move freely behind the wheel and learn to rely on the heating system of the vehicle to keep you warm.
• Always wear your seatbelt and leave air bags operational / turned –on!
