Which statement is true regarding seatbelt usage?

The correct statement emphasizes the importance of proper seatbelt usage for maximizing safety in a vehicle. Even if the shoulder belt adjusts automatically, it is crucial to manually adjust the lap belt to fit snugly across your hips. The lap belt plays a key role in securing you in your seat and minimizing movement during a collision. A properly adjusted lap belt helps prevent injuries by distributing the force of a crash across the stronger parts of the body and reducing the risk of ejection from the vehicle.

The reasoning behind this choice is rooted in the principles of vehicle safety; both components of the seatbelt system work together to ensure effective protection. It is vital for drivers and passengers to ensure that both the lap and shoulder belts are correctly fitted and adjusted, regardless of the automatic features available. Proper seatbelt use is a fundamental aspect of defensive driving and is critical for every trip taken in a vehicle.