What is the main purpose of seat belts?

The primary purpose of seat belts is to reduce injury in case of an accident. In a collision, seat belts help to secure occupants in their seats, preventing them from being thrown forward or ejected from the vehicle. This restraining force significantly decreases the risk of serious injuries, such as head trauma or spinal injuries, by distributing the forces of a crash more evenly across the stronger parts of the body.

Moreover, seat belts are designed to work in conjunction with airbags, enhancing the overall protective measures during a crash. While driver fatigue and passenger comfort are important considerations in vehicle safety, they are not the primary functions of seat belts. Similarly, while some might think of seat belts as providing cushioning, their main function is to secure individuals in place rather than act as a padding or cushion during an impact.