Seatbelt Fit and Height Adjusters Do Not Always Give Every Occupant a Comfortable and Safe Belt Position

A shoulder-height adjuster is meant to put the belt in a good position. For some occupants, moving it is not enough. The belt can still rub the neck, press uncomfortably, or sit poorly across the shoulder. Shorter women have reported neck rubbing and painful pressure, and some improvise ways to move the belt away from the neck. A person who is uncomfortable may be tempted to place the belt under an arm or behind the back, which can reduce protection in a crash. Late pregnancy can also change how the belt fits.

Adjusters work differently in different vehicles. Some need a button pressed and the anchor moved in a set direction until it locks, which may be easy for many people but harder for those with limited hand strength, restricted shoulder movement, or difficulty reaching the mechanism. How widespread this is has not been measured. A fixed belt path and a limited adjustment range may not fit every body.