1996 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 21

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snugon the hips, just touching the thighs.In a crash, this applies force'to the strong pelvic bones. Andyou'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid underit, the belt would apply forceat your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and acrossthe chest. These parts.ofthe body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or crash. On convertible models, the safety belt also locks if you pull the beltvery quickly out of the retractor.