How can a passenger tell when the seatbelt is properly secured?

A properly secured seatbelt should cross the sternum and be snug across the lap. This ensures maximum safety by keeping the occupant securely in place during a drive. A seatbelt that is correctly positioned prevents excessive movement in the event of a sudden stop or collision, reducing the risk of injury.

The snug fit across the lap is critical; it should lie low across the hips and not rise up onto the abdomen, where it could cause injury in a crash. Additionally, the shoulder portion of the belt should cross the middle of the chest and rest snugly against the body without being too tight.

The other options do not provide a reliable indication of a properly secured seatbelt. Just hearing a click does not always confirm that the seatbelt is positioned correctly or snug. A loosely draped seatbelt offers minimal protection and does not fulfill its purpose in the vehicle, while being very tight could be uncomfortable and potentially restrictive, which might lead to improper use or adjustments that compromise safety.