1996 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 29

If your shoulder belts stop working after a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. Minor parking lot bumping and severe road impacts (such as potholes) may trigger the switch even when there is no apparent body damage. In many instances, you might not even know that the switch has been triggered. The shut-off switch cuts power to the motors that move the shoulder belts in addition to stopping the flow of fuel to the engine. To reset the switch, see Engine, starting after a collision in the Index. If your shoulder belts are not working properly, get your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. If the fuel pump shut-off switch is not the cause for the shoulder belt not moving, have the system serviced by a qualified technician as soon as possible. RWARNING If the shoulder belt is released from the emergency release buckle, store the tongue end away from the seat tracks. Failure to do this may result in the seat belt being cut or torn when the seat is adjusted forward or back. Any damaged shoulder belt must be replaced. Manual Front Lap and Shoulder Belt (Available only on Canadian vehicles) While in motion, the combination lap and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, turn hard, or if your vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph (8 km/h) or more, the lap and shoulder belt locks and helps reduce your forward movement. The retractor can be made to lock by jerking on the belt. 27