1994 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 19

Seats and Restraint Systems Q: Why don't theyjust put in air bags so people won't haveto wear safety belts? A: Air bags, or Supplemental Inflatable Restraint systems, are in some vehicles today and will be in more of them inthe future. But they are supplemental systems only - so they work with 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 in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions. Q: If I'm a good driver, andI never drive far from home,why should I wear safety belts? A: 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 Safety BeltReminder number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph Light (65 km/h). When the key is turned to "Run" or Safety belts are foreveryone. "Start," a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver's safety belt is already buckled. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on until the driver's belt is buckled. ...I 8