Click It or Ticket - Seatbelt Usage
How do I wear my seatbelt properly?
The law requires the proper use of whatever seat belt system the seating position provides. Vehicles equipped with air bags also provide lap and shoulder belts that must be worn. Some vehicles have automatic shoulder belts with lap belts that are fastened manually. These manual lap belts must be used for compliance and for maximum protection.
Lap belts should be worn as low and snug as possible on the hips since belts that are worn high on the stomach can cause injuries.
Shoulder belts must also be worn snugly across the shoulder and chest. Never wear a shoulder belt with more than an inch of space between your chest and the belt. Too much slack will allow your head to go too far forward in a crash. If the shoulder belt rubs against your neck and is uncomfortable, try adjusting your sitting position or the position of the vehicle seat to get a proper fit.
Cloth comfort sleeves can be placed on the shoulder belt to make it more comfortable. Do not place the shoulder belt behind your back or under your arm. With the shoulder belt behind the back, your head will be thrown forward to strike the dashboard, windshield, or the air bag. As with the belts behind the back, shoulder belts under the arm do not hold your head back away from danger. In addition, the belt under the arm can fracture ribs and cause serious internal injuries.
Can’t seatbelts actually cause injuries?
Yes, they can cause some injuries, especially in severe crashes. These injuries are usually limited to bruises and cracked collarbones and ribs - very minor injuries when compared to what often happens without the seat belt. It is important that belts be worn correctly to reduce the chance that they might injure you.
Governor's Highway Safety Office
James K. Polk Building
505 Deaderick Street
Suite 1800
Nashville, TN 37243
Office: 615.741.2589
1.800.99 BELTS
Fax: 615.253.5523
"We're going to save lives"
