Why Safety Belts Work

When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a seat on wheels.

Put someone on it.

Put someone on it.

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle.

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle.

The rider does not stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...

or the instrument panel...

or the instrument panel...

or the safety belts!

or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That is why safety belts make such good sense.

    See also:

    Power Outlets
    The accessory power outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone or MP3 player. There are two accessory power outlets. One is located under the armrest inside the ...

    Power Outlets
    The accessory power outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone or MP3 player. There is one accessory power outlet located on the instrument panel below the climate ...

    Engine Exhaust
    WARNING Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. Exposure to CO can cause unconsciousness and even death. Exhaust may enter the vehicle if: ► The vehic ...