Safety Precautions

Adjusting the seats so that you sit in a safe, comfortable position plays an important role, as a driver and for passenger safety, together with the seat belts and airbags in an accident.

WARNING

Do not use a cushion that reduces friction between the seat and the occupant. The occupant's hips may slide under the lap portion of the seat belt during a collision or sudden stop. Serious or fatal internal injuries may occur because the seat belt cannot work properly.

Airbags

You can take steps to reduce the risk of being injured by an inflating airbag. Sitting too close to the airbag greatly increases the risk of injury if the airbag deploys.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that drivers maintain at least 10 inches (25 cm) between the center of the steering wheel and the chest.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of serious injury or death from airbag inflation, observe the following precautions:

• Adjust the driver's seat as far rearward as possible while maintaining the ability to keep full control of the vehicle.
• Adjust the front passenger seat as far back as possible.
• Hold the steering wheel by the rim at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions to minimize the risk of injury to your hands and arms.
• NEVER place anything or anyone between the steering wheel and the airbag.
• Do not allow the front passenger to place feet or legs on the instrument panel to minimize the risk of leg injury.

Seat Belts

Always fasten your seat belt before starting any trip.

Passengers should always sit upright and be properly restrained. Infants and small children must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system. Adults and children who have outgrown a booster seat must be secured with the seat belts.

WARNING

Observe the following precautions when adjusting the seat belt:

• NEVER use one seat belt for more than one occupant.
• Always keep the seatback upright with the lap portion of the seat belt snug and low across the hips.
• NEVER allow children or small children to ride on a passenger's lap.
• Do not route the seat belt across your neck, over sharp edges, or position the shoulder belt away from your body.
• Do not allow the seat belt to become pinched or caught.