What is the primary purpose of a seatbelt?

The primary purpose of a seatbelt is to reduce the risk of injury during a collision. Seatbelts are designed to secure occupants in their seats, preventing them from being thrown forward or ejected from the vehicle in the event of a crash. This crucial safety feature significantly minimizes the likelihood of severe injuries by distributing the forces experienced during a collision across the stronger parts of the body, such as the pelvis and ribcage, rather than concentrating them on more vulnerable areas.

In addition to enhancing occupant safety, seatbelts also assist in maintaining proper seating position, allowing for better control of the vehicle. However, their foremost function is clearly related to injury prevention.