Why is seat belt usage important?

Seat belt usage is crucial because it significantly reduces the risk of injury in accidents. When a vehicle collides, the force of the impact can throw occupants forward or ejected from the vehicle. Seat belts are designed to restrain passengers and drivers at the time of a collision, effectively preventing them from being thrown out of their seats or suffering serious injuries from impacting the interior of the vehicle. Research and statistics consistently show that wearing a seat belt greatly decreases the likelihood of fatalities and severe injuries in crashes. Therefore, using a seat belt is not just a recommendation but a vital safety measure that plays a critical role in protecting lives on the road.