Pregnant Moms and Seat Belts

Your seat belt is your baby’s first car seat

A growing pregnancy belly can make a lot of things more difficult – including car seat belts. Think of your body as baby’s first car seat. It’s important to wear a lap and shoulder belt every time you travel — even in the difficult final weeks of pregnancy.  Your seat belt will help keep you and your unborn child safe in a crash. 

How should I wear a seat belt while I am pregnant?

  • Buckle the lap belt below your belly so that it fits snugly across your hips and pelvic bone.
  • Place the shoulder belt across your chest (between your breasts) and over the mid-portion of your collar bone (away from your neck).
  • Never place the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back.
  • Pull any slack (looseness) out of the belt.
  • If you are in an accident, seek medical attention right away, even if you are not injured.

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If You’re Pregnant: Seat Belt Recommendations for Drivers and Passengers [PDF] »

What should I know about air bags when I travel in a car?

  • Keep 10 inches between the steering wheel and your breastbone.
  • If the car has an air bag “on/off” switch, check to be sure it is turned to “on.”
  • As your belly grows, you may not be able to keep as much space between you and the steering wheel. If the car has a tilt steering wheel, make sure it is angled toward your breastbone, not your belly or head.

What do I need to know about car seat safety for my baby?

Louisiana law requires you to buckle up your children in proper car seats. Learn more about benefits, laws, and installation »