Traveling While Pregnant: What You Need to Know

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Being pregnant has its ups and downs, and there are some things you can’t do for the time being. There are a lot of things you can do, however, making the time go by faster. If you’re planning on taking a road trip while expecting a baby, that’s great! The following are some things you should know before heading out on the road.

1. Buckle Up

Wearing a seatbelt is always a protection, but more so when you’re pregnant. While injuries can still occur, you have less of a chance of serious injury if you put your seatbelt on before pulling out of the driveway. Your seatbelt should rest comfortably away from your neck on your shoulder and go down across the chest. The lap belt should fit snugly below your belly and across the hips. Scoot your seat back as far away from the steering wheel as is safely possible.

2. Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed

Water is an important part of your diet, especially when you’re pregnant. Road trips can get long and tiring, but you should always be prepared with plenty to drink. When you’re packing the water bottles, throw in enough snacks to keep you satisfied while you’re away from home. Plan your trip well so you get three or four solid meals every day. If you’re on a special diet, plan for that, and if you’ve been using any medication, be sure to pack it.

3. Practice Safe Driving Techniques

Now that you’re pregnant, driving safely is a benefit to one more person. You’d do anything to protect your baby, so it’s time to practice safe driving techniques as best as you can. Always use your blinker, check your blind spot, stop and go appropriately, follow the speed limit, and do all the little things required to stay safe on the road.

4. Prepare for the Worst

Although you hope for the best, you should be prepared for the worst. What will happen if you’re in an accident while on your road trip? If you’re in an accident while pregnant,

  • Call 911 to report the accident and to call for paramedics to provide immediate care.
  • Visit a doctor, either at the emergency room or at a local OB/GYN office.
  • Follow up with your own doctor when you get home.
  • Collect evidence of the crash to support your insurance claim or lawsuit.
  • Call your lawyer to help you work through the claims process or file a lawsuit against the responsible party.

Get Going Today

Pregnancy comes with its challenges, but when you’re prepared, there are a lot of fun things you can do. If you’re planning a road trip, be prepared with these four easy steps. Contact a personal injury attorney in Indianapolis, IN, like the Ward & Ward Law Firm. Their expertise and knowledge will only give you an advantage when arguing your claim.