Is It Safe to Drive While Pregnant? What You Should Know

Reviewed by: Dr. Ashan

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5 min read

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Apr 16, 2025

For most pregnant women, daily tasks such running errands, commuting, or car trips form regularity in their life. Especially in the second trimester, one often worries about whether it is safe to keep driving throughout pregnancy. The good news is driving is usually seen as safe in simple pregnancies. To safeguard their developing baby as well as themselves, expectant women should be aware of several significant safety precautions and issues, nevertheless.

Is Driving Safe in the Second Trimester?

Indeed, driving is usually safe between the tenth and twenty weeks of pregnancy, particularly in the second trimester, which many women find to be most comfortable phase. Typical early pregnancy symptoms including nausea, vertigo, and tiredness usually become better, which helps one remain alert and focused while driving.

Still, individual health status can affect safety. Before driving, women experiencing pregnancy complications—such as hypertension, dizziness, vision problems, or a past fainting—should see their physician.

Seatbelt Use: Crucial for Maternal and Fetal Safety

Proper seatbelt positioning is critical during pregnancy and should never be skipped. Here’s how to wear it safely:

  • Lap belt: Place it under your belly, across your hips and pelvis—not over your abdomen.
  • Shoulder belt: Position it between your breasts and to the side of your baby bump. Never place it behind your back or under your arm.

Modern seatbelts are designed to distribute force safely, and using them reduces the risk of injury to both mother and baby in the event of an accident.

Airbags and Pregnancy: Are They Safe?

Many expectant mothers worry about airbags possibly hurting their unborn child in an accident. Still, airbags are not just safe—they are strongly advised. They should always be used in line with a correctly worn seatbelt since they provide an extra degree of protection.

To optimize safety:

  • Keep the seat as far back as is comfortable while still reaching the pedals.
  • Tilt the steering wheel upward, away from your belly and toward your chest.

Driving Comfort During Pregnancy

As pregnancy progresses, your body undergoes changes that may affect your comfort and safety while driving. During weeks 10–20, consider the following:

  • Back support: Use a small pillow or lumbar roll to support the lower back.
  • Frequent breaks: On long drives, stop every 1–2 hours to stretch and walk to promote circulation.
  • Hydration and snacks: Keep water and light snacks on hand to prevent low blood sugar or dehydration.

When to Avoid Driving

While driving is typically safe, there are instances where it should be limited or avoided:

  • Severe fatigue or sleepiness
  • Dizziness or fainting episodes
  • Contractions, cramping, or unusual discomfort
  • Blurred vision or headaches related to high blood pressure
  • High-risk pregnancy as advised by your doctor

In such cases, it’s best to let someone else drive or consider alternative transportation.

What About Car Travel as a Passenger?

If you're riding as a passenger, many of the same safety rules apply. Always wear a seatbelt correctly, and adjust the seat for maximum comfort and distance from the dashboard or airbag. Keeping your feet elevated slightly can also help reduce swelling on longer trips.

Conclusion

Driving during pregnancy—particularly between 10 and 20 weeks—is generally safe for most women, provided they follow basic safety precautions. Always wear a seatbelt properly, maintain good posture, and be aware of how your body feels. If you experience any complications or symptoms that could impair your driving ability, consult your healthcare provider. Safety for both you and your baby should always come first, whether you're in the driver’s seat or the passenger's.

References

  1. Vladutiu, C. J., & Weiss, H. B. (2011). Motor Vehicle Safety During Pregnancy. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 6(3), 241–249. https://doi.org/10.1177/1559827611421304
  2. F. Auriault, Brandt, C., Chopin, A., B. Gadegbeku, Ndiaye, A., M.-P. Balzing, L. Thollon, & Behr, M. (2016). Pregnant women in vehicles: Driving habits, position and risk of injury. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 89, 57–61. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2016.01.003
  3. Redelmeier, D. A., May, S. C., Deva Thiruchelvam, & Barrett, J. F. (2014). Pregnancy and the risk of a traffic crash. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 186(10), 742–750. https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.131650