What is the primary purpose of seat belts in a vehicle?

The primary purpose of seat belts in a vehicle is to protect occupants in case of a crash. When a vehicle suddenly stops due to a collision, the forces involved can be immense, propelling unrestrained passengers forward at high speeds. Seat belts are designed to secure occupants in their seats, thereby reducing the risk of injury or ejection from the vehicle during such incidents. The belts work by distributing the force of a crash across stronger parts of the body, such as the chest and pelvis, thereby minimizing the impact on any one area.

The other options suggest functions that are not related to the primary purpose of seat belts. For instance, keeping the driver awake is more associated with alertness strategies and does not hinge on the presence of seat belts. Similarly, seat belts do not have any role in regulating a vehicle's speed or enhancing the car's aesthetic appeal. These choices highlight misconceptions about seat belt functionality and reinforce why understanding the true purpose is essential for safety while driving.