A seat belt only helps when it is worn correctly, every time. Families do best with a simple routine that nobody skips.
- Make buckling up the signal that the trip can start. The vehicle stays in park until every belt clicks.
- Check lap belts sit low across the hips and shoulder belts cross the middle of the chest and shoulder.
- Never tuck a shoulder belt behind the back or under an arm.
- Drivers set the example. Buckle first, then check everyone else.
Distraction is anything that pulls eyes, hands, or attention from driving. Planning ahead removes most temptations.
- Set navigation, music, and climate before shifting out of park.
- Turn on your phone's driving focus mode or place the phone out of reach.
- Ask a passenger to handle calls, messages, and directions.
- Pull over safely when a child or pet needs attention.
Small, repeatable habits add up to a safer household driving culture, especially for new and teen drivers.
- Keep a following distance of at least three seconds, more in rain or at night.
- Adjust mirrors and seat position before every drive in a shared vehicle.
- Talk through tricky routes, merges, and school zones with newer drivers.
- Review your vehicle's warning lights in the owner's manual together.
