What is the primary purpose of a seatbelt?

The primary purpose of a seatbelt is to protect occupants from injury in a crash. Seatbelts work by securing passengers in their seats, which significantly reduces the risk of being thrown from the vehicle during a collision. They help to distribute the forces of a crash across the stronger parts of the body and can prevent severe injuries to the head, neck, and spine. In many cases, wearing a seatbelt can be the difference between life and death in an accident, as it enhances the safety of all passengers inside the vehicle.

While comfort, theft prevention, and holding items in place may have some relevance in specific contexts, they do not constitute the primary function of seatbelts. The core objective remains the protection of individuals from crash-related injuries, making it essential for every occupant to buckle up when traveling in a vehicle.