Why Wear Seat Belts
Wearing seat belts, and wearing them properly, is fundamental to
your safety and the safety of your passengers.
During a crash or emergency stop, seat belts can help keep you
from being thrown against the inside of the car, against other
occupants, or out of the car.
Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash.
But, in most cases, seat belts reduce your chance of serious injury,
and can even save your life. That is why many states and all
Canadian provinces require you to wear seat belts.
Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of being killed or
seriously hurt in a crash.
Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear
them properly.
Important Safety Reminders
Seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. All infants and
small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats (see
page
27
).
A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and
her unborn child (see page
18
).
Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they
could be very seriously injured in a crash.
Do not place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your
arm or behind your back. This could increase the chance of serious
injuries in a crash.
Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts.
They can reduce the effectiveness of the belts and increase the
chance of injury.
(cont'd)
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
