Passengers wearing seat belts correctly benefit greatly from the ability of the belts to reduce the kinetic energy generated. The front crumple zones and other passive safety features (such as the airbag system) are also designed to mitigate kinetic energy. The amount of energy generated will thus decrease, thereby reducing the risk of injury. Never remove, modify or repair the seat belt or any part of the belt fixture system. Always fasten the seat belt correctly before driving and wear it properly while the vehicle is in motion.
Twisted seat belt If it is difficult to remove the seat belt from the belt guide, the seat belt may have become twis- ted if it was returned too quickly into the side trim: In this case: The illustrated examples describe frontal colli- sions. Properly worn seat belts also substantially reduce the risk of injury in all other types of acci- dents. This is why seat belts must be fastened before every trip - even if your only planning on going “around the block”. Ensure that all passen- gers also wear their seat belts properly. – Take hold of the latch plate then slowly and carefully pull out the seat belt.
Accident statistics have shown properly worn seat belts to be an effective means of substan- tially reducing the risk of injury and improving the chances of survival in severe accidents. Fur- thermore, properly worn seat belts ensure proper airbag operation in case of accidents. This is why wearing a seat belt is a legal requirement in most countries. – Untwist the seat belt and guide it back slowly by hand. Fasten the seat belt even if you are unable to un- do the twist. However, the twist should not be in an area of the seat belt that comes into direct contact with the body! The twist should be cor- rected immediately by a Volkswagen Dealership.
Although the vehicle is equipped with airbags, seat belts must be used at all times. For example, the front airbags will only be triggered in certain types of frontal collision. Front airbags will not be triggered during minor frontal collisions, mi- nor side collisions, rear collisions, rolls or acci- dents in which the airbag trigger threshold in the control unit is not exceeded. Using seat belts incorrectly increases the risk of severe or fatal injuries. WARNING ● Regularly check to see if the seat belt and its related parts are in perfect working condi- tions. ● Keep the seat belts clean.
Therefore, always wear your seat belt and ensure that your passengers have fastened their seat belts properly before driving. ● Do not allow the belt bands to become jam- med, damaged or to rub on any sharp edges. ● Always keep the latch plate and slot in the buckle free from foreign bodies and liquids. Using seat belts Please refer to at the start of the chapter on page 34. Using seat belts → : Check the condition of all seat belts regular- ly. Keep the seat belts clean. Never let any foreign bodies and liquids get on to the seat belt, the latch plate or into the slot for the seat belt buckle. Do not trap or damage the seat belt and latch plate (e.g. when closing the door).
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