What is the primary purpose of seat belts?

The primary purpose of seat belts is to keep occupants safely restrained in the vehicle during a crash, which significantly minimizes the risk of ejection from the vehicle. When a vehicle is involved in an accident, the force of the impact can cause unrestrained passengers to be thrown from their seats, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Seat belts secure individuals in place, absorbing some of the force from a collision and preventing them from being propelled out of the vehicle.

In addition to preventing ejection, seat belts also help distribute the forces of a crash across the stronger parts of the body, such as the chest and pelvis, further enhancing safety. This safety feature is vital in reducing the severity of injuries and is a key reason why seat belt usage is mandated by law in many places.

The other options, while they may have some relevance to vehicle operation or comfort, do not reflect the primary safety function of seat belts. For instance, improving vehicle efficiency or reducing fuel consumption pertains more to vehicle design and driving habits rather than safety equipment. Comfort while driving is also important but does not encapsulate the critical role that seat belts play in safeguarding lives during accidents.