What is the primary purpose of seat belts in vehicles?

The primary purpose of seat belts is to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Seat belts are designed to restrain vehicle occupants during a collision or sudden stop. By keeping passengers securely in their seats, seat belts prevent them from being thrown about inside the vehicle or ejected from it, which significantly decreases the likelihood of serious injuries or fatalities.

In addition to their life-saving function, seat belts work with the vehicle's safety features, such as airbags, to provide enhanced protection. They help distribute the forces of a crash across stronger parts of the body, minimizing potential harm. While comfort and ease of movement may be related benefits, the critical safety function of seat belts remains their primary role in ensuring occupant safety during road travel.