What is the purpose of seat belts?

The purpose of seat belts is fundamentally to secure occupants and reduce injuries in crashes. When a vehicle is involved in a collision, the forces acting upon it can cause occupants to be thrown forward or ejected from the vehicle if they are not restrained. Seat belts work by holding occupants firmly in their seats, which significantly decreases the risk of serious injuries by preventing them from colliding with the interior of the vehicle or being ejected out.

In addition, seat belts keep occupants properly positioned in their seats relative to airbags and other safety features, thus enhancing overall safety during an accident. This crucial safety device has been proven through numerous studies and crash tests to save lives and mitigate the severity of injuries, making it an essential component of vehicle safety.