Mary Washington Healthcare Recommends Protecting Yourself and Your Baby – Wear Your Seatbelt

WHO: Attention all expecting mothers and passengers: your safety matters, now more than ever. As you prepare for the journey of parenthood, Mary Washington Healthcare reminds you how crucial it is to prioritize your safety on the road.

WHAT: In 2021, a staggering 50% of passenger vehicle occupants tragically lost their lives because they were not wearing a seatbelt. This statistic underscores a critical truth: seatbelts save lives! Always remember that buckling up protects you as well as the precious life you are carrying.

Not wearing a seatbelt puts you at a significantly higher risk of being ejected from the vehicle in the event of a crash, which can be deadly. It is also essential to recognize the dangers posed by airbags as while they are designed to provide an additional level of safety in the event of a collision, the force they exert on deployment can be lethal if you are not properly restrained. Airbags are designed to work with seat belts, not replace them.

Every time you step into a vehicle, make it a habit to fasten your seatbelt securely, ensuring it fits snugly across your lap and shoulder. Remember, the few seconds it takes to buckle up could save your life and the life of your child. See attached recommendations for seatbelt placement of pregnant drivers.

For more information about seatbelt safety and guidelines for all ages, visit National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by clicking here.

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About Mary Washington Healthcare:

Mary Washington Healthcare is a fully integrated, regional healthcare system that provides inpatient and outpatient care at over 60 facilities including Mary Washington Hospital, a 471-bed tertiary hospital, Stafford Hospital, a 100-bed community hospital, four emergency departments, and a multi-specialty graduate medical education program. Mary Washington Healthcare is a non-profit health system with a longstanding commitment to provide care regardless of ability to pay. For more information about our services and facilities, visit mwhc.com.