Idaho Written Driver's License Practice Test

Why is it important to wear seatbelts while driving?

1. They make the car look nicer

2. They are inconvenient but required by law

3. They keep occupants secure during sudden stops or crashes

4. Only passengers are required to wear them

The correct answer is: They keep occupants secure during sudden stops or crashes

Wearing seatbelts is vital for safety because they keep occupants secure during sudden stops or crashes. Seatbelts are designed to restrain the body, reducing the risk of injury by preventing occupants from being thrown forward or ejected from the vehicle in the event of a collision. They help distribute the force of a crash across the stronger parts of the body and significantly lower the chances of severe injury or death. This is why modern vehicles are equipped with seatbelts, and laws mandate their use for all vehicle occupants, not just passengers. The option that suggests seatbelts are merely an inconvenience overlooks the crucial role they play in occupant safety. Additionally, the misconception that only passengers are required to wear seatbelts ignores the law that holds all vehicle occupants responsible for buckling up, including drivers. Thus, option C accurately reflects the primary safety function of seatbelts.