When it comes to driving while pregnant, safety is a top priority for expectant mothers. Unfortunately, a growing trend has seen pregnant women being targeted with unregulated car accessories that promise added comfort or safety but may actually do more harm than good.
The Rise of “Pregnancy Seat Belt Adjusters”
One accessory gaining popularity is the so-called “pregnancy seat belt adjuster.” These devices claim to redirect the lap belt away from a pregnant woman’s belly, supposedly making driving more comfortable and reducing the risk of injury in a crash. However, experts warn that these products are not regulated or approved by Australian safety authorities, and there is no evidence they make driving safer for pregnant women.
Why These Accessories Are Risky
- Unregulated Products: Many of these seat belt adjusters are sold online without meeting any official safety standards or undergoing crash testing.
- False Sense of Security: The marketing often suggests these devices are safer than standard seat belts, which is misleading and potentially dangerous.
- Potential for Harm: Using untested accessories can interfere with the way seat belts are designed to protect both mother and unborn child in a collision. Misrouting the belt could increase the risk of injury rather than reduce it.
What Do the Experts Say?
Australian road safety experts and medical professionals strongly advise against using these aftermarket accessories. The safest way for pregnant women to wear a seat belt is:
This positioning ensures that, in the event of a crash, the forces are distributed across the pelvis and chest areas better able to withstand impact, rather than the abdomen
While it’s understandable to seek extra comfort or reassurance during pregnancy, unregulated car accessories like seat belt adjusters can put both mother and baby at risk. Trust the proven safety of your car’s original seat belt system, and always consult professionals before using any aftermarket products.
For more car safety tips and trustworthy advice, reach out to our team or consult official road safety resources. Your safety and your baby’s, is too important to trust to untested gadgets.
