2007 Mercedes C-Class Owner's Manual - Page 44

Getting started Driving Driving Warning! G Make sure that absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure that the pedals still have sufficient clearance. During sudden driving or braking maneuvers, the objects could get caught between or beneath the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury. Failure to wear and properly fasten and position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident. You and your passengers should always wear seat belts. If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, the possibility of injury or death is lessened if you are wearing your seat belt. The air bags can only provide the protection they were designed to afford if the occupants are using their seat belts ( page 69). Warning! G According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriate infant or toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. For additional information, see "Children in the vehicle" ( page 74). A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and/or the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Fastening the seat belt Warning! G Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure your passengers are properly restrained, even those sitting in the rear. 43