Q: If I am a good driver, and I never drive far fromhome, why should I wear safety belts?A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you are in anaccident — even one that is not your fault — youand your passengers can be hurt. Being a gooddriver does not protect you from things beyond yourcontrol, such as bad drivers.Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km)of home. And the greatest number of seriousinjuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than40 mph (65 km/h).Safety belts are for everyone.How to Wear Safety Belts ProperlyThis part is only for people of adult size.Be aware that there are special things to know aboutsafety belts and children. And there are different rulesfor smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding inyour vehicle, see Older Children on page 1-29 orInfants and Young Children on page 1-32. Follow thoserules for everyone’s protection.First, you will want to know which restraint systems yourvehicle has.We will start with the driver position.Driver PositionLap-Shoulder BeltThe driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here is how to wearit properly.1. Close and lock the door.2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight. To seehow, see “Seats” in the Index.3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.Do not let it get twisted.The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the beltacross you very quickly. If this happens, let the beltgo back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the beltacross you more slowly.1-15
