What role do seat belts play in vehicle safety?

Seat belts play a crucial role in vehicle safety by restraining occupants during a crash, which significantly reduces the risk of injury. In the event of a collision, unrestrained occupants can be thrown from their seats or collide with the interior of the vehicle, leading to severe injuries or fatalities. By securing occupants, seat belts keep them in place, minimizing movement and the potential impact with other passengers, the vehicle's interior, or being ejected from the vehicle.

While factors like comfort and posture might be associated with seat belts, their primary function is safety. They do not contribute to passenger mobility; instead, they are designed explicitly to ensure that occupants remain secured in their seats during sudden stops or collisions. This essential safety feature has been proven over decades of research and accident data, highlighting the importance of buckling up for every trip, regardless of distance.