1996 Lexus GS 300 Owners Manual - Page 68

SEAT BELTS, SRS AND CHILD RESTRAINTS SEAT BELTS Seat belt precautions Lexus recommends that the driver and passengers in the vehicle be properly restrained at all times with the seat belts provided. Failure to do so could increase the chance of injury and/or the severity of injury in accidents. Baby or small child. Use a child restraint system which fits your vehicle. See "Child restraint" for details. Child. If a child is too large for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and must be restrained using the vehicle's seat belt. According to accident statistics, the child is safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat. Do not allow the child to stand up or kneel on either rear or front seats. If the shoulder belt falls across the child's neck or face, move the child to the center position and use the center lap belt. Pregnant woman. Lexus recommends the use of a seat belt. Ask your doctor for specific recommendations. The lap belt should be worn securely and as low as possible over the hips and not on the waist. Injured person. Lexus recommends the use of a seat belt. Depending on the injury, however, first check with your doctor. ! CAUTION Persons should ride in their seats properly wearing their seat belts whenever the vehicle is moving. Otherwise, they are much more likely to suffer serious bodily injury in the event of sudden braking or a collision. When using the seat belts, observe the following: S Use the belt for only one person at a time. Do not use a single belt for two or more people - even children. S Avoid reclining the seatbacks too much. The seat belts provide maximum protection when the seatbacks are in the upright position. (See "Adjusting seatback angle.") S Be careful not to damage the belt webbing or hardware. Take care that they do not get caught or pinched in the seat or doors. S Inspect the belt system periodically. Check for cuts, fraying, and loose parts. Damaged parts should be replaced. Do not disassemble or modify the system. S Keep the belts clean and dry. If they need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or lukewarm water. Never use bleach, dye, or abrasive cleaners - they may severely weaken the belts. S Replace the belt assembly (including bolts) if it has been used in a severe impact. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious. 55