2009 Dodge Avenger Owner Manual - Page 45

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43 ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should be belted at all times. Lap/Shoulder Belts All seating positions in your vehicle are equipped with lap/shoulder belts. The belt webbing retractor will lock only during very sudden stops or collisions. This feature allows the shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under normal conditions. But in a collision, the belt will lock and reduce your risk of striking the inside of the vehicle or being thrown out. WARNING! (Continued) • It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. • Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seat belts are designed to go around the large bones of your body. These are the strongest parts of your body and can take the forces of a collision the best. • Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make your injuries in a collision much worse. You might suffer internal injuries, or you could even slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instructions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep your passengers safe, too. (Continued) 2 WARNING! • Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a seat belt properly. (Continued)