Seat Belt Care

Seat Belt Use During Pregnancy

Seat belts work for everyone,

including pregnant women. Like all

occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they do not wear seat belts.

A pregnant woman should wear a

lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible,

below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a seat belt

is worn properly, it is more likely that

the fetus will not be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone,

the key to making seat belts effective is wearing them properly.

Seat Belt Extender

If the vehicle's seat belt will fasten around you, you should use it.

But if a seat belt is not long enough,

your dealer will order you an extender.

When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the

extender will be long enough for you. To help avoid personal injury, do not let someone else use it, and use it

only for the seat it is made to fit. The extender has been designed for adults.

Never use it for securing child

restraints. For more information on the proper use and fit of seat belt

extenders see the instruction sheet that comes with the extender.

Safety System Check

Periodically check the seat belt

reminder, seat belts, buckles, latch

plates, retractors, shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), and seat belt

anchorages to make sure they are all

in working order. Look for any other loose or damaged seat belt system

parts that might keep a seat belt

system from performing properly. See your dealer to have it repaired. Torn

or frayed seat belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart

under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, have it replaced

immediately.

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Seat Belt Care

Keep belts clean and dry.

{ Warning

Do not bleach or dye seat belt

webbing. It may severely weaken

the webbing. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate

protection. Clean and rinse seat belt

(Continued)