Q: If I am a good driver, and I never drive far fromhome, why should I wear safety belts?A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you are ina crash — even one that is not your fault — youand your passenger(s) can be hurt. Being agood driver does not protect you from thingsbeyond your control, such as bad drivers.Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km)of home. And the greatest number of seriousinjuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than40 mph (65 km/h).Safety belts are for everyone.How to Wear Safety Belts ProperlyThis section is only for people of adult size.Be aware that there are special things to know aboutsafety belts and children. And there are differentrules for smaller children and babies. If a child will beriding in your vehicle, see Older Children on page 1-32or Infants and Young Children on page 1-35. Followthose rules for everyone’s protection.It is very important for all occupants to buckle up.Statistics show that unbelted people are hurt more oftenin crashes than those who are wearing safety belts.Occupants who are not buckled up can be thrown outof the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike othersin the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.First, before you or your passenger(s) wear a safetybelt, there is important information you should know.1-17