What is the primary purpose of wearing a seatbelt?

Wearing a seatbelt is primarily intended to reduce injury during a crash. In the event of an accident, seatbelts play a crucial role in keeping occupants secured in their seats, which decreases the risk of being ejected from the vehicle and helps absorb the forces associated with a collision. Research has consistently shown that wearing a seatbelt dramatically lowers the likelihood of severe injury or fatality in car accidents, making it a vital safety measure.

While keeping the driver in position may also be a function of a seatbelt, its main objective is to safeguard passengers from harm during accidents. Enhancing comfort while driving can be a secondary effect, and preventing vehicle theft is unrelated to seatbelt function, as seatbelts have no impact on the security of the vehicle itself. The importance of a seatbelt as a life-saving device is emphasized through various safety campaigns and laws that mandate their use.