Seats and Restraints 2-17How to Wear Safety BeltsProperlyThis section is only for people ofadult size.Be aware that there are specialthings to know about safety beltsand children. And there are differentrules for smaller children andinfants. If a child will be riding inthe vehicle, see Older Children onpage 2‑43 or Infants and YoungChildren on page 2‑45. Followthose rules for everyone'sprotection.It is very important for all occupantsto buckle up. Statistics show thatunbelted people are hurt more oftenin crashes than those who arewearing safety belts.Occupants who are not buckled upcan be thrown out of the vehicle in acrash. And they can strike others inthe vehicle who are wearing safetybelts.First, before you or yourpassenger(s) wear a safety belt,there is important information youshould know.Sit up straight and always keepyour feet on the floor in front ofyou. The lap part of the beltshould be worn low and snug onthe hips, just touching the thighs.In a crash, this applies force to thestrong pelvic bones and you wouldbe less likely to slide under the lapbelt. If you slid under it, the beltwould apply force on your abdomen.This could cause serious or evenfatal injuries. The shoulder beltshould go over the shoulder andacross the chest. These parts of thebody are best able to take beltrestraining forces.The shoulder belt locks if there is asudden stop or crash.