South Carolina Driver's Permit Practice Exam

Which of the following is true about seat belts?

1. They are only required for passengers in front seats.

2. They reduce the risk of severe injury and death.

3. They are not effective in preventing ejection in crashes.

4. They should be worn only during long trips.

The correct answer is: They reduce the risk of severe injury and death.

Seat belts play a crucial role in enhancing the safety of vehicle occupants by significantly reducing the risk of severe injury and death during a crash. Studies consistently show that wearing a seat belt can prevent ejection from the vehicle and help keep passengers securely positioned, which is vital because most injuries occur during violent impacts. The effectiveness of seat belts is well-documented; they provide critical protection by distributing the forces of a collision over the strongest parts of the body, thereby minimizing the chances of serious injuries to vital organs. It is also worth noting that seat belts are required by law for all passengers, regardless of their seating position, and they should be worn at all times while the vehicle is in motion, not just during long trips. The evidence strongly supports the conclusion that using seat belts is one of the simplest and most effective ways to enhance safety for all road users.