IAM offers motoring advice to pregnant women

Mums-to-be have been offered some helpful advice on how to keep themselves and their unborn babies safe whilst behind the wheel.

Amanda Smith from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) said that as long as pregnant women feel well and are comfortable, there is no reason they cannot continue driving up until labour.

Seatbelts are a common concern for expectant ladies, but as Ms Smith points out, they are the only thing preventing a driver's abdomen from hitting the steering wheel in the event of a crash.

They should be worn below the bump from hip bone to hip bone, while the diagonal strap should be moved to the side of the bump.

"Incorrect use can harm the baby in the case of a collision, so always make sure the seatbelt is worn above and below the bump, not over the middle," Ms Smith's advice states.

Of course having a larger tummy to contend with means mums-to-be may need to move their seat back. This is safe, provided they can reach the brake, accelerator and clutch and that their mirrors are adjusted properly.