Important safety instructions for using seat belts
There are a number of safety points concerning the seat belts which you should remember. This will help to reduce the risk of injury in an accident.
WARNING
• The seat belts can only provide maximum protection if the
seats are adjusted properly ⇒ “Seats and storage”.
• To ensure proper protection, it is important to wear the seat
belts in the correct position ⇒ “How to wear seat belts
properly”. Ensure that the seat belts are worn exactly as recommended
in this chapter. Belts which are not worn properly can
increase the risk of injury in accidents considerably.
• Do not allow the seat belt to become twisted or jammed, or to
rub on any sharp edges.
• Never allow two passengers (even children) to share the same
seat belt. It is especially dangerous to place a seat belt over a child
sitting on your lap.
• Do not wear the belt over hard or fragile objects (such as
glasses or pens, etc.) because this can cause injuries.
• Loose, bulky clothing (such as an overcoat over a jacket)
impairs the proper fit and function of the belts.
• The belts must be kept clean, otherwise the retractors may not
work properly ⇒ “Seat belts”.
• The slot in the seat belt buckle must not be blocked with paper
or other objects, as this can prevent the latch plate from engaging
properly.
• The latch plate of the belt must always be engaged in the
correct buckle for that seat, otherwise the belt will not be fully
effective.
• Check the condition of the seat belts at regular intervals. If you
notice that the belt webbing, fittings, retractor mechanism or
buckle of any of the belts is damaged, the belt must be replaced
by a qualified workshop.
• The seat belts must not be removed or modified in any way. Do
not attempt to repair a damaged belt yourself.
• Seat belts which have been worn in an accident and stretched
must be replaced by a qualified workshop. The belt anchorages
should also be checked.