You already know the risks of driving. However, if you are a new parent, you may not understand the increased likelihood of getting into an accident.
New moms must deal with a multitude of distractions. According to the CDC, 2019 saw 91,000 children aged 12 or younger suffer a motor vehicle accident injury. They also list car accidents as a leading cause of death for children. To keep your offspring safe, continue reading to learn a few tips about driving with children in the car.
Speak or sing to soothe your child
If you drive with your newborn in the car, they will likely cry at some point. You might have the temptation to ignore them or turn around and admonish them. However, trying to ignore your screaming infant might cause you to lose focus on the road, and turning in your seat is a bad idea. Try speaking calmly to your baby or singing. If nothing else, this might help keep you calm and focused on the road.
Do not install a mirror
It is popular for parents to put a mirror on their back seat to look at their baby. However, this is a bad idea. Constantly looking at your child increases your level of distraction, so resist the temptation entirely and do not install the mirror. If you need to tend to your child, take extra time and pull over to a safe stopping spot.
You cannot altogether remove the distractions of driving with a small child. They require a lot of attention and care. However, if you emphasize keeping your eyes on the road and set yourself up for success, you will prevent many dangerous situations.