What role do seatbelts play in passenger transport safety?

Seatbelts play a crucial role in enhancing safety during passenger transport by significantly reducing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. When properly worn, seatbelts restrain the occupants of a vehicle, preventing them from being thrown forward or ejected from their seats during a collision or sudden stop. This restraint minimizes the likelihood of severe injuries caused by impact with the interior of the vehicle or other objects.

Further emphasizing their importance, numerous studies and crash tests have demonstrated that seatbelt usage greatly decreases the chances of fatalities and serious injuries among vehicle occupants. The effectiveness of seatbelts is widely recognized, making them a fundamental safety feature in all types of passenger transport vehicles.

Other options suggest that seatbelts are optional or primarily for compliance, which does not take into account the life-saving benefits provided by proper seatbelt use. Additionally, while comfort may be a consideration in design, it is not the primary purpose for which seatbelts are installed.