Why Safety Belts Work

When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a seat on

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a seat on wheels.

Put someone on it.

Put someone on it.

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider does not stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...

or the instrument panel...

or the instrument panel...

or the safety belts!

or the safety belts!

With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does.

You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That is why safety belts make such good sense.

    See also:

    Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light
    When the vehicle is started, this light flashes and a chime may come on to remind front passengers to fasten their safety belt. Then the light stays on solid until the belt is buckled. Fo ...

    Audio System
    When using the Bluetooth system, sound comes through the vehicle's front audio system speakers and overrides the audio system. Use the VOL/ knob during a call to change the volume level. Th ...

    Power Door Locks
    On vehicles with power door locks, the switches are located on the front doors. (Unlock): Press to unlock the doors. (Lock): Remove the key from the ignition and press to lock the doors. ...