Why is it important to wear a seat belt?

Wearing a seat belt is crucial because it significantly reduces the risk of injury or death in the event of a crash. Seat belts are designed to secure occupants in their seats, preventing them from being thrown forward or ejected from the vehicle during a collision. When a car comes to a sudden stop due to an accident, unrestrained passengers can experience severe injuries from impacting the vehicle's interior or being propelled out of the vehicle. Studies consistently show that wearing a seat belt can cut the risk of fatal injury in a crash by about 45% for front-seat passengers and 60% for those in the back seat. This critical safety feature is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect lives on the road.

Although factors like comfort, fuel efficiency, and laws regarding seat belt use are important, the primary purpose of a seat belt is to enhance safety and save lives in an accident.