Are 1974-1975 automotive belt systems hazardous to children?
R. G. Snyder and B. O'Neill
The 1974 and early-1975 model automobiles are equipped with belt interlock
systems that require front outboard seat occupants who weigh more than 21.5
kg (47.3 lb) to wear threepoint lap and diagonal upper-torso belts (or wear
the lap belt and position upper-torso belt behind them), assuming that the
interlock has not been circumvented. Recent legislation has eliminated the
interlock requirement, but new models are still likely to be fitted with
three-point restraints for the front outboard seating positions. These
restraint systems were designed and tested for adult use. Thus, based on
the different structure of a younger child and the fact that there is a
wide variation of belt orientation, child size, and seating environments,
there is legitimate concern that the upper diagonal belt might contribute
to injury of the child under certain impact conditions.
