Seat belts: The unsung heroes that save lives beyond collisions

The main task of seat belts is to keep the driver and passengers in their places during an unexpected collision. But that's not all; seat belts also have another application that proves particularly useful when the vehicle doors are blocked after an accident.

Most people traveling in cars consider fastening seat belts as a routine activity. However, some believe that during an accident, it's better to be thrown out of the car than to be trapped inside. For them, seat belts might as well not exist. Few realize, however, that seat belts have a particular feature that debunks these theories.

Seat belts should be fastened by both the driver and all passengers in the car. Driving without fastened seat belts can result in a fine of about $24 and 5 penalty points. However, the law provides a few exceptions to this requirement, such as for pregnant women, individuals with a certificate of medical contraindications, or taxi drivers.

It is crucial to remember that fastening seat belts is not just about avoiding a fine; it is, above all, about your safety. Seat belts protect against being thrown through the windshield during an accident, which can be life-saving.

There is a belief that in certain situations, it is better to be thrown out of the car than to remain trapped inside. Critics of using seat belts often use this belief to support their arguments.

Experts consider this theory a very dangerous myth that can be easily debunked. Seat belts do indeed have a function that can be extremely useful in the event of blocked doors after a collision. This feature lets you easily and quickly get out of a vehicle.

This refers to the buckle, the metal part of the belt that you insert into the latch receptor when fastening it. It is a solid element made of a thick steel plate. It is small enough to fit easily in your hand and is conveniently held.

This is not incidental, as you can use it to break the window and escape from a burning car if the doors do not allow for an easy exit. In such a situation, every second counts, so being aware of this function can save your or someone else's life.