2001 Mercedes SL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 68

Instruments and controls Operation Driving Instrument cluster display 64 Practical hints Car care Technical data Index Restraint systems To reduce the risk of injury when the front airbags inflate, it is very important for the driver and front passenger to always be in a properly seated position and to wear their seat belts. For maximum protection in the event of a collision always be in normal seated position with your back against the backrest. Fasten your seat belt and ensure that it is properly positioned on your body. For unobstructive inflation of door side impact airbags, keep door pocket lids closed. Since the airbag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating and hands on steering wheel position will help to keep you at a safe distance from the airbag. Occupants who are unbelted, out of position or too close to the airbag can be seriously injured by an airbag as it inflates with great force in the blink of an eye: • Sit properly belted in an upright position with your back against the backrest. • Adjust the driver's seat as far as possible rearward, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. Adjust the driver's seat as far as possible rearward, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. The distance from the center of the driver's breastbone to the center of the airbag cover on the steering wheel must be at least ten inches (25 cm) or more. You should be able to accomplish this by a combination of adjustments to the seat and steering wheel. If you have any problems, please see your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. • Do not lean with your head or chest close to the steering wheel or dashboard. • Keep hands on the outside of steering wheel rim. Placing hands and arms inside the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury when the driver front airbag inflates. • Do not lean against doors.