Seat belts' secret lifesaver: The hidden power of the buckle

Seat belts have saved many lives by minimizing the impact of road accidents. However, not everyone knows that they have another function—and it's not the belts themselves but their buckle.

After an accident, car doors are often damaged to the extent that they cannot be opened from the inside. It is easier to do this from the outside, as a stable support point can be utilized. Assistance from another person can also be invaluable, as sometimes the doors can be pried open. This is why firefighters often try other methods instead of using equipment to cut the bodywork.

In some situations, getting out of the vehicle becomes crucial for safety. This can happen when the car catches fire, releases toxic fumes, is in an area prone to another impact, or falls into the water. In such cases, seat belts can save lives.

An essential element of the seat belt is the buckle, sometimes called a loop. It is a metal component that we insert into the lock, also known as the latch, to buckle up. It should be emphasized that it is a highly sturdy part made of a thick steel plate and very comfortable to hold.

Thanks to this buckle, you can break the side window to exit the vehicle. Of course, a window hammer, like the ones in buses, would be more convenient, but usually, we only have the seat belt buckle at hand. Remember this option in emergencies, especially in situations we hope no one ever has to experience.