Buckle Up
Buckling up is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself while driving. Yet hundreds of thousands of people are injured or die each year because drivers and passengers are not wearing seat belts or are wearing them incorrectly. It's more than just buckling up. Drivers and passengers must buckle up safely and comfortably. The lap belt should be positioned snugly yet comfortably below your stomach and as low on your hips as possible. The shoulder belt should fit tightly across your chest, not under your arm or behind your back. To ensure your seat belt fits correctly, NJM recommends the following:
- When shopping for a car, test the seat belt. Make sure it's a good fit for you.
- Seat belt adjusters enable a secure, custom fit. These are especially useful when traveling with young passengers.
- If you need extra space, seat belt extenders are a simple remedy.
- If you drive an older or classic car with lap belts only, check with your vehicle manufacturer about how to retrofit your car with updated seat belts.
Buckle up the right way every trip, every time.