Which safety feature is designed to minimize the force of inertia when a car stops suddenly?

The function of a seatbelt is critical in enhancing passenger safety during sudden stops or collisions. When a vehicle comes to an abrupt halt, inertia can cause occupants to continue moving forward at the same speed the vehicle was traveling. A seatbelt restrains them, effectively minimizing the risk of injury by keeping them securely in place and preventing them from colliding with the interior of the vehicle or being ejected.

In addition to restraining movement, seatbelts are designed to stretch slightly in a controlled manner during a crash, which helps to distribute the force of the impact across sturdier parts of the occupant’s body, rather than concentrating it on vulnerable areas. This further reduces the severity of injuries that could occur.

Other safety features, such as airbags and anti-lock brakes, also play significant roles in protecting occupants but are designed to serve different purposes. Airbags deploy to cushion the impact, while anti-lock brakes help maintain vehicle control during emergency braking. Rearview mirrors primarily assist with visibility and do not contribute to minimizing forces from inertia during sudden stops.