Should the shoulder belt cross the chest and the lap belt lay across the stomach?

In a properly adjusted seatbelt system, the shoulder belt should cross over the chest while the lap belt should lay snugly across the hips, not the stomach. This ensures that in the event of a crash, the forces are distributed across the stronger parts of the body, helping to prevent injury. Positioning the lap belt over the stomach can increase the risk of injury to the abdomen in a collision.

The correct configuration enhances safety for all passengers, including both children and adults, regardless of their seating position. It is vital to ensure that the seatbelt fits correctly for optimal protection, following guidelines set by safety organizations. This way, the occupant is secured properly, thereby reducing the likelihood of injury during a crash.