ABSTRACT
Previous research has focussed on the risk of abdominal trauma to the pregnant woman and foetus during a collision. The importance of seat belt use and correct positioning around the pregnant abdomen is well established. During pregnancy women undergo many physical and emotional changes. However research has not yet investigated the effect of pregnancy upon other aspects of driving such as driving style or behaviour. Behavioural changes are of concern because they may put pregnant women, foetuses or other road users at increased risk. This chapter presents information based on analysis from 268 volunteers' questionnaire answers. The questions about driving, seat belt use, and how physical and emotional changes affect car travel revealed interesting changes to driver behaviour/style that impact upon safe driving in pregnancy. The paper concludes with a summary of suggestions that incorporate the behavioural changes to enhance the safety of pregnant women during car travel.
