An airbag is a flexible fabric envelope designed to inflate rapidly during a collision to protect occupants from injuring themselves on interior car objects such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows.

An airbag deploys quickly and with great force. In the past, experts raised concerns that the impact of an airbag on a pregnant woman’s abdomen could cause a uterine or placental rupture—leading to pregnancy loss. However, a recent study at the University of Washington compared car accidents involving pregnant women, both in vehicles with and without air bags. They concluded that airbags do not seem to elevate the risk of pregnancy complications.

Furthermore, both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommend that pregnant women wear a three-point safety belt and use the airbags installed in their vehicle.

The leading cause of death to fetuses is the death of pregnant women in crashes. The combination of an airbag along with a properly worn seat belt is the best way to protect both mother and unborn child. If you have been involved in a serious car accident and need expert legal advice, contact a Harrisburg car accident lawyer at Schmidt Kramer. The toll free number is (717) 888-8888 and the initial consultation is free. You may also wish to download a free copy of our book, Who Pays the Bills When You Are Injured in an Automobile Accident? for additional information.