A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine suggests that the leading cause of fetal morbidity and mortality is motor vehicle accidents. Given this information, it is very important that expectant mothers educate themselves on the best ways to keep themselves and their unborn babies safe in the event of a motor vehicle accident.

In the report, researchers found that preterm birth, stillbirth, or placental eruption are unfortunately common effects of car accidents when pregnant women are involved. They also found that the risks of these traumas significantly decreases when a pregnant woman is wearing a seatbelt and is riding in a vehicle with airbags. While some question the safety of restraints like seatbelts when it comes to unborn children, these researchers found that women who aren’t buckled up are up to three times more likely to suffer a stillbirth when they are in an accident.

According to the researchers, “This study highlights the importance of crashes during pregnancy and their possible adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes. Clinicians should be aware of these effects and should advise pregnant women about the risk of being in a crash and the long-term consequences that crashes can have on their pregnancies. Given the associations that were observed, a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding crashes during pregnancy is needed to develop effective strategies for prevention.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that pregnant women take the following steps to protect themselves and their babies in vehicles:

• Move your seat as far back as you can
• Always wear a seatbelt
• Check to make sure you can operate pedals comfortably before setting off
• Try to make sure there are at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel while pregnant.

If you are involved in an auto accident while pregnant, it is crucial that you seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t appear to be injured.

At the Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C., our personal injury lawyers help individuals who have been injured or lost a loved one in an auto accident pursue just compensationfor their physical, emotional, and financial damages. If you would like to learn more about car accident lawsuits, contact us today to schedule a free legal consultation.