1996 GMC Savana Van Owner's Manual - Page 20

Here Are QuestionsMany People Ask About Safetv Belts-- and the Answers U Q: A: If I'm a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why shouldI wear safety belts? You may be an excellent driver, but if you're in an accident -- even one that isn't your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn't protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 ktn/h). Safety belts are for everyone. Won't I trapped in the vehicle after Q: accidentbe I'm wearing a safety belt? an if A: You coclld be -- whether you're wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you're upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, s o you can unbuckle and get out, is I H L I ~ I Igreater if you are belted. If my vehicle has air bags, why shouldI have to wear safety belts? A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only;so they work cvith safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you're in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That's true not only i n frontal collisions. but especially in side and other collisions. 1-12