Driving with a Baby in Your Car: Tips for New Moms
Bringing your newborn home is an unforgettable moment. It also marks the beginning of many new responsibilities, including driving with your little one safely in the car. For first-time mothers, the thought of getting behind the wheel with their baby can be nerve-wracking.
The road is unpredictable, and even the shortest trips require extra caution. Just a couple of years ago, in 2022, the estimated total cost of car crashes in the US was $340 billion. Every year, thousands of accidents take place that damage properties and take away lives. Hence, being careful on the road is a must, especially when you’re driving with your baby in the backseat.
From ensuring proper car seat installation to staying alert for reckless drivers, there’s a lot to consider when driving with your child. But with preparation and mindfulness, you can create a secure environment for both you and your baby.
Here’s how to make every car ride as safe and stress-free as possible.
Ensure the Car Seat is Installed Correctly
A car seat that isn’t securely fastened or correctly positioned can put your baby at serious risk in the event of an accident. New moms often assume that simply buckling the seatbelt around the car seat is enough, but there are additional checks that should be done.
The car seat should be rear-facing and positioned in the back seat, preferably in the middle, for optimal safety. Straps should be snug but not overly tight, and the harness clip should be at armpit level.
For easy access to the seats, you can opt for the rotating ones. These rotating car seats will cost you between $280 and $650.
Many hospitals and fire stations offer free car seat checks, where trained professionals can inspect the installation and make necessary adjustments. Even if you’re confident in your setup, having a second pair of eyes can provide peace of mind.
Keep an Eye Out for Other Reckless Drivers
Even if you follow all the rules of the road, you can’t control how other drivers behave. Distracted, impatient, or reckless drivers can pose a serious threat, and as a new mom, being extra vigilant is essential.
Recently, an underage DUI driver in Atlanta, going the wrong way, crashed into another vehicle. Accidents like this almost always lead to injuries followed by lawsuits and compensations.
Had anyone been injured in this incident, an Atlanta car accident lawyer would have been involved with this case for sure. After all, car accident lawyers are specifically trained to handle these cases and deal with car accident victims.
Avoid engaging with aggressive drivers, and if someone is tailgating you, stay calm and let them pass rather than speeding up. Defensive driving is key when you have precious cargo in the back seat.
According to Atlanta Personal Injury Law Firm, reckless driving can lead to serious accidents; unfortunately, not everyone takes safety as seriously as they should. Drivers who text, speed, or fail to obey traffic signals put everyone at risk.
A minor fender bender might not have been a major concern before you had a baby. But now, even the slightest impact can have dangerous consequences.
Avoid Distractions While Driving
Distracted driving is a major reason why so many car accidents are taking place frequently. Teens, in particular, engage in distracted driving more than any other age group.
For new moms, it’s natural to want to check on their baby constantly, but turning around while driving is dangerous. Instead, use a baby car mirror attached to the back seat so you can monitor them without taking your eyes off the road.
Also, a crying baby can be distressing, we know. But pulling over in a safe location is the best way to address their needs rather than trying to soothe them while driving.
Your phone should also be completely out of reach to avoid any temptation to check messages or notifications. Even hands-free devices can be a distraction, so limit phone use to emergencies.
If you rely on GPS, set your route before leaving so you don’t need to fiddle with it mid-drive. Your full attention should be on the road and your baby’s safety.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
No one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, but being prepared for unexpected situations is an essential part of driving with a baby.
Always have an emergency kit in your car stocked with essentials such as diapers, wipes, an extra set of clothes, bottles, and a blanket. Keeping a first-aid kit and a flashlight in your glove compartment can also be helpful in case of minor incidents.
If you do experience car trouble, pull over safely and call for assistance. Being stranded on the side of the road with a baby is stressful, but having a plan in place can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of car is best when driving with an infant in the backseat?
A spacious and safe vehicle, such as an SUV, minivan, or sedan with high safety ratings, is ideal for driving with an infant. Cars with rear-seat airbags, ISOFIX/LATCH anchors for car seats, and smooth suspension ensure a safer and more comfortable ride. Features like climate control, ample storage, and wide rear doors also enhance convenience for parents.
Should you drive a car with a baby on your lap?
No, driving with a baby on your lap is extremely dangerous and illegal in most places. In the event of sudden braking or a crash, the baby could be thrown forward or crushed by the driver. Airbags and seat belts are not designed to protect an unrestrained infant, making a proper car seat the only safe option.
Should you have an infant sit in the front seat of a car?
No, infants should never sit in the front seat due to airbag deployment risks, which can cause serious injuries. The safest place for an infant is in a rear-facing car seat in the backseat. Most safety guidelines recommend keeping children in the back until they reach the appropriate age and size for front-seat travel.
Driving with your baby is a new challenge, but with the right precautions, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey every time. From securing the car seat correctly to staying alert on the road, each step contributes to your child’s well-being. While the thought of accidents might be scary, being prepared and staying calm can help you handle any situation that arises.
