Safety Belt Extender
If
the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you
should use it.
But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your
retailer will order you an extender. It’s free.
When
you
go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear,
so
the extender will be long enough for you. The extender
will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle
that you choose. Don’t
let
someone else use
it,
and use
it
only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it
to the regular safety belt.
Checking Your Restraint Systems
Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light
and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and
anchorages are working properly.
Look
for any other
loose or damaged safety belt system parts.
If
you see
anything that might keep a safety belt system fi-om
doing its job, have
it
repaired.
Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a
crash. They can rip apart under impact forces.
If
a belt is
torn or frayed, get a new one right away.
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash
If
you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts?
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.
But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn
during a more severe crash, then you need new belts.
If
belts
are
cut or damaged, replace them. Collision
damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt
or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs
may be necessary even
if
the belt wasn’t being used at
the time
of
the collision.
If
your seat adjuster won’t workafter a crash, the special
part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the
adjuster may need to be replaced.
If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag
system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier
in
this section.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and
have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system
does not need regular maintenance.)
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