Study for the South Carolina Driver's Permit Test. Prepare with competitive quizzes and multiple choice questions. Understand key concepts to ensure a passing score. Get ready to hit the road!

Practice this question and more.


What are head restraints designed to do?

  1. Increase comfort

  2. Reduce whiplash injuries

  3. Support neck posture

  4. Enhance seat safety

The correct answer is: Reduce whiplash injuries

Head restraints are specifically designed to reduce whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision. When an accident occurs, particularly from behind, the sudden movement can cause the head to be thrown backwards and then forwards quickly. This rapid motion can strain the neck and lead to whiplash, which is a common injury resulting from such impacts. Properly positioned head restraints can help limit this motion by supporting the head and neck during a collision, thereby minimizing the risk and severity of injury. This is a crucial safety feature in vehicles, aimed at protecting passengers and drivers from the potentially serious consequences of whiplash. While head restraints can contribute to comfort and possibly support neck posture, their primary purpose is to enhance safety by preventing injuries during car accidents.