What is the purpose of seat belts?

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Not long ago, driving without a seat belt was a decision left up to the driver. Nowadays, nearly every state enforces some type of seat belt law; New Hampshire, with its motto "Live Free or Die," is the only outlier. Like many laws, there is a reason why seat belt enforcement exists.

Keep Us Alive

The primary purpose of seat belts is safety, both for the driver and the passenger. Seat belts restrain automobile occupants within their seats, helping to reduce impact in a crash situation.

Other Automobiles

During an accident, human bodies can become dangerous entities themselves, especially when they go flying through the air. Seat belts help protect other people on the road from the possibility that you might crash through your windshield.

Secure Driving

Seat belts help drivers stay in a stable position while driving. Without seat belts, drivers are much more likely to shift around in their seats, leading to decreased driving ability.

Improved Control

Drivers wearing seat belts are much more likely to be able to make split-second decisions in dangerous driving situations, due in part to increased focus and closed-in position from being belted in.

Monetary Reasons

Due to the fact that seat belts reduce both the number of accidents and the seriousness of those accidents, seat belts save both drivers, passengers and every taxpayer money every year.

Source:

Safety Forum: Seat Belts

Ghsa.org: State Seat Belt Laws

Policy Almanac: The Benefits of State Seat Belt Laws

More Information:

State Fund: Wear Your Seat Belt

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