The Seat Belt System and How It Works
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. They can even
save your life. That is why many
states and all Canadian provinces
require you to wear seat belts.
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
18
).
A pregnant woman needs to wear
a seat belt to protect herself and
her unborn child (see page
10
).
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.
Driver and Passenger Safety
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.
