FORD 2002 Taurus v.2 - Manual (Page 119)

The purpose of the BeltMinder is to remind occasional wearers to wear
safety belts all of the time.
The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts:
(All statistics based on U.S. data)
Reasons given... Consider...
“Crashes are rare
events” 36 700 crashes occur every day. The more
we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare”
events, even for good drivers. 1 in 4 of us will
be seriously injured in a crash during our
lifetime.
“I’m not going far” 3 of 4 fatal crashes occur within 25 miles of
home.
“Belts are
uncomfortable” We design our safety belts to enhance comfort.
If you are uncomfortable - try different
positions for the safety belt upper anchorage
and seatback which should be as upright as
possible; this can improve comfort.
“I was in a hurry” Prime time for an accident. BeltMinder
reminds us to take a few seconds to buckle up.
“Seat belts don’t
work” Safety belts, when used properly, reduce risk
of death to front seat occupants by 45% in
cars, and by 60% in light trucks.
“Traffic is light” Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in single-vehicle
crashes, many when no other vehicles are
around.
“Belts wrinkle my
clothes” Possibly, but a serious crash can do much more
than wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you are
unbelted.
“The people I’m with
don’t wear belts” Set the example, teen deaths occur 4 times
more often in vehicles with TWO or MORE
people. Children and younger brothers/sisters
imitate behavior they see.
Seating and Safety Restraints
119