What is the primary purpose of seat belts?

The primary purpose of seat belts is to keep you secured in your seat during a crash. When a vehicle is involved in an accident, the force of the impact can cause you to be thrown forward or ejected from the vehicle if you are not restrained. Seat belts are designed to restrain your body in place, minimizing movement and preventing serious injuries that can occur from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or being thrown from the vehicle. This safety feature plays a critical role in protecting occupants by distributing the force of the crash over stronger parts of the body and preventing undue movement.

While securing the vehicle, preventing distractions, and reducing weight might have their own importance in vehicle operation and safety, they do not encompass the crucial life-saving function that seat belts provide during collisions. This highlights the significance of wearing seat belts for the safety of all passengers in a vehicle.