Adjust your safety belt so it fits snugly and correctly to maximize its effectiveness in a collision. Here’s a breakdown of how to properly adjust your safety belt:
Proper Safety Belt Adjustment:
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Lap Belt Placement: Position the lap belt low across your hips, not across your stomach. This ensures the force of a collision is distributed across your strong pelvic bones rather than your abdomen, which could cause serious internal injuries.
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Snug Fit: Make sure the lap belt is snug. A loose lap belt can allow you to slide forward in a crash. Pull the belt to remove any slack.
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Shoulder Belt Placement: The shoulder belt should go over your shoulder and across your chest diagonally. It should not rub against your neck nor should it slide off your shoulder.
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Never Under the Arm: Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This can cause serious injuries in a crash because the belt will not properly restrain you.
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Adjustable Shoulder Belt Height: Many vehicles have adjustable shoulder belt anchors. Use this feature to position the belt so it fits comfortably and correctly across your shoulder and chest.
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Pregnant Women: Pregnant women should wear the lap belt low and snug across their hips, below the abdomen. The shoulder belt should be positioned comfortably across the chest and to the side of the abdomen. Always consult your doctor for specific recommendations.
Illustration
| Belt Type | Proper Placement |
|---|---|
| Lap Belt | Low and snug across the hips. |
| Shoulder Belt | Diagonally across the chest and shoulder; never under the arm or behind the back. |
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your safety belt is properly adjusted to provide the best possible protection in the event of a collision.
