How to Wear Seat Belts Properly

According to the 2009 Traffic Safety Facts statistical summary compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 33,963 people perished in traffic fatalities in 2009. This number is a decrease of almost 9 percent from 2008 data. Data from 2008 shows that seat belts saved 13,250 American lives over the age of 5 years. While seat belts can save lives, they may be ineffective if people do not wear them properly. Wear seat belts properly to ensure vehicular safety and to help avoid serious injury or death in accidents.

Instructions

• 1

  Pass the lap belt over your lap between 2 and 4 inches below your waistline. For most secure protection, ensure the lap belt crosses your hips. Never wear the lap belt above your waist or over your stomach.

• 2

  Pull the shoulder strap out to tighten it so the shoulder strap is snug and tight against your torso.

• 3

  Position the shoulder strap of the seat belt diagonally across your collarbone and down across your chest.

• 4

  Fasten the seat belt by clicking the buckle. Pull the buckle once to ensure you fastened it securely.

• 5

  Ensure a correct seat belt fit. If the shoulder strap crosses in front of your neck or touches your neck, check to see if you can adjust the height of the shoulder strap so it is not so close to your neck. By moving the shoulder strap higher or wider, you can make the shoulder strap fit across your torso properly. If you cannot find a shoulder strap adjustment mechanism, try adjusting your seat to make the shoulder strap fit. Check your automobile user's manual for seat belt adjustment instructions or consult your dealer for assistance.