Many pregnant women believe that using a seat belt while riding in a vehicle is unsafe for their baby, however, ConsumerReports.org says that this is a myth that has been debunked by studies. As a story out of Houston shows us, not wearing a seat belt can be the difference between life and death.
Sadly, KHOU reports that in early October a drunken driver caused a wreck that killed a man and injured his wife, who is two months pregnant. The crash occurred on the Hardy Toll Road in Houston.
Investigators say that a driver of an Impala was trying to go around a vehicle when it slammed head on into an opposite moving vehicle that was carrying the husband and pregnant wife.
The suspected drunk driver of the impala tried to flee the scene, but he was apprehended.
What Is the Leading Cause of Trauma to Pregnant Women?
ConsumerReports.org says the leading cause of trauma to pregnant women is motor vehicle crashes. These crashes cause higher rates of birth issues, such as preterm birth, stillbirth and placental abruption.
Additionally, stillbirth rates were nearly three times higher amongst women who did not wear a seat belt.
Unfortunately, there are about 170,000 crashes every year involving pregnant women, and about 370 unborn babies die as a result of these wrecks.
The information could not be clearer: a pregnant woman should always wear her seat belt. There are too many road hazards and negligent drivers on the road not to wear one.
The Law Offices of Aaron Allison – Austin Personal Injury Attorney
