How to Wear Seat Belts Properly

Follow these rules for maximum protection.

There are additional things to know about seat belts and children, including small children and infants. If a child will ride in the vehicle, see Older Children or Infants and Small Children. Learn and follow the child restraint rules in addition to the following rules.

It is very important for all occupants to wear seat belts. Statistics show that unbelted occupants are more likely to be injured in crashes than those who wear seat belts.

There are important things to know about wearing seat belts correctly.

• Sit upright and always keep your feet on the floor in front of you, if possible.
• Always use the correct buckle for your seating position.
• Wear the lap portion of the seat belt low and snug across your hips, touching your thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones, and you are less likely to slide under the belt. If you slide under it, the belt will apply force to your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries.
• Wear the shoulder belt over the shoulder and across the chest. These body parts are best able to take the restraining forces of the seat belt. The shoulder belt locks if a sudden stop or crash occurs.

Never allow the lap or shoulder belt to become loose or twisted.

Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back.

Always use the correct buckle for your seat position.

Never route the lap or shoulder belt over the armrest.