{"id":25,"date":"2016-11-09T17:15:31","date_gmt":"2016-11-09T17:15:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/child-passenger-safety\/?page_id=25"},"modified":"2026-07-29T15:47:39","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T19:47:39","slug":"pregnancy-and-seatbelts","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/child-passenger-safety\/pregnancy-and-seatbelts\/","title":{"rendered":"Pregnancy and Seat Belts"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Why Should I Wear a Seat Belt While I\u2019m Pregnant?<\/h2>\n

Wearing a seat belt is the best way to protect you and your baby during a vehicle crash. Being ejected from the vehicle during a crash is almost always fatal. Research shows that unbelted pregnant women are three times more likely to lose their baby in a crash than if belted. They are also two times as likely to have excessive maternal bleeding. Even in a minor crash where people are not seriously injured, there is a chance of losing the baby. Always wear a seatbelt to protect your baby and yourself.<\/p>\n

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What\u2019s the Right Way to Wear My Seat Belt While I\u2019m Pregnant?<\/h2>\n

Shoulder Belt<\/h3>\n

Place diagonally across the center of your chest, between your breasts, and rest on the center of your collar bone. Place down the side of your belly. No twists in webbing.<\/p>\n

Lap Belt<\/h3>\n

Place below the curve of your belly so it fits snugly across your hips and pelvic bone.<\/p>\n

To help with fit, try:<\/p>\n

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  1. Turn the center section of the lap belt flat against the top of your thighs.<\/li>\n
  2. Slide the webbing under the curve of your belly until it rests on your hips and pelvic bone. Lifting your belly may additionally help with snug placement<\/li>\n
  3. Remove any excess slack.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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    Is it Safe to Use a Maternity Seat Belt Adjuster?<\/h2>\n

    No. They are not regulated and they are not crash-tested. Such devices introduce excess slack into the seat belt, reducing the seat belt\u2019s ability to work properly.<\/p>\n

    Vehicle and seat belt manufacturers go through extensive testing and are required to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Using the vehicle\u2019s standard three-point seat belt correctly every time is proven to keep you and your baby safer during a crash.<\/p>\n

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    How Do I Adjust the Settings in My Vehicle for a Better Fit?<\/h2>\n

    Safety first- make sure your vehicle is safely parked while making adjustments.<\/p>\n

    Use all available vehicle options to get into a comfortable and upright position. Consult your owner\u2019s manual for more information about your vehicle\u2019s features.<\/p>\n

    Depending on seating position, you may be able to adjust your recline angle, seat height, shoulder belt height, distance from the dashboard, and head rest.<\/p>\n

    Remember to:<\/p>\n